When making estate planning decisions, many people wonder if they can include their funeral preferences in a will or trust. While a will or trust is essential for managing assets, it can also address certain personal wishes, such as funeral arrangements. Understanding...
A strong estate plan protects your wishes and supports the person you trust most. If you live with a partner but the law does not recognize your relationship, you should take steps that give them clear rights. A few key documents can help you do that. Setting up wills...
Going through a divorce in Houston involves untangling countless aspects of a shared life. You divide property, update bank accounts and establish new routines. But in the midst of these immediate changes, it is dangerously easy to forget about your estate plan. You...
Many people create a revocable living trust to ensure their assets avoid the cost and delay of probate. They meticulously transfer their home bank accounts and investments into the trust assuming this new document makes a will obsolete. This is a common and...
Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your estate plan. As your circumstances change, your plan should reflect your current goals, assets, and relationships. Many people create their estate plan once and forget about it, but reviewing it regularly helps ensure...
Life can change quickly. A sudden health issue may leave someone unable to manage money, healthcare, or daily needs. Planning for incapacity early protects personal wishes and gives trusted people clear guidance when support becomes necessary. It also reduces conflict...
Technological advances have made it easier than ever for people to digitally complete critical tasks. People can telecommute to work and research major transactions online. They can scan and send documents to others electronically. They can store critical records...
Pets are beloved family members, and planning for their care after your passing is an important part of estate planning. Without a plan, your pets may face uncertainty, something no pet owner wants. Thankfully, you can take steps to ensure their well-being. Designate...
Electronic wills—often called e-wills—are becoming more common as people handle important tasks online. Many states now allow people to create and sign wills electronically. In Texas, however, the rules require more than simply logging in and typing up a document....
A durable power of attorney (DPOA) is an essential tool in estate planning. It allows you to appoint someone, known as an agent or attorney-in-fact, to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so due to illness, injury, or incapacity. This document can...