Misconceptions about estate planning abound, such as the belief that it is only necessary for the wealthy or that simply having a will is sufficient. Those who are considering putting together an estate plan can benefit from learning about the dangers of these common...
Beneficiaries often assume that an estate plan will be relatively equal. For instance, say that a parent has $2 million in their estate and four adult children. Those direct beneficiaries may assume they will each receive roughly $500,000 in assets when the parent...
Challenging a will in Texas can be a complex process. If you believe a loved one’s will does not reflect their true intentions, understanding the basics of contesting a will can help you navigate this situation. Who can challenge a will? Only individuals with legal...
When people decide to disinherit a beneficiary, the reason is often negative. Perhaps the two people have become estranged over the years, so they no longer have a relationship. Maybe a child made lifestyle decisions that the parent doesn’t approve of, so they’re...
Creating a well-crafted will is one of the most important steps you can take to help ensure that your estate is handled according to your wishes after your death. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for family members to question someone’s mental fitness when they...
Estate planning is vital for securing your financial future. Adding it to your financial plan cuts costs, protects your assets and ensures your estate lasts longer. Here is how you can integrate estate planning into your financial plans. Improving your finances Estate...
Holographic wills are handwritten and signed documents that express a person’s wishes for distributing their estate. Because they do not require a lawyer, people often write these wills themselves. However, ambiguity in holographic wills can easily lead to disputes...
Creating an estate plan is something that many adults know they should do, but some adults put this off. If you're ready to create your estate plan, there are specific things you need to consider. One of these is how you’re going to pass your assets down to your loved...
If you ask people why they haven’t made an estate plan, you may get a variety of answers. Some people don’t know what paperwork they need. Others don’t think they have enough assets. Some just find the process overwhelming. One common trend that you’ll find is that...
Undue influence can invalidate legal documents like wills or contracts when one party unfairly manipulates another. Understanding the four key factors that courts look for can help clarify how this legal concept works. 1. Vulnerability of the influenced party One...
