Marriage plays a significant role in estate administration. Generally, a deceased’s surviving spouse automatically receives the former’s assets, even without a will, through intestate succession. Unfortunately, the same rule does not apply to common-law marriages....
Estate Planning
Updating an estate plan after a divorce
After a divorce in Texas, it's important to update elements of your estate plan. These elements include your power of attorney, wills, trusts and life insurance beneficiaries. Updating an estate plan If you and your former spouse worked together to create an estate...
An overview of estate plans and trusts
The value of estate planning is highly beneficial for Texas residents who plan to leave a legacy for their loved ones. Estate plans help with asset distribution and guardianship of minor children, disabled dependents, and pets. Estate plans vary based on types, such...
Estate tax planning strategies
When planning your estate, you should consider the tax implications of your decisions. There are many estate tax plan strategies that you may want to consider. Roth IRA conversion In some cases, people can pay less taxes by converting a traditional IRA into a Roth...
Will my spouse get everything if I don’t have a will in Texas?
Texas residents might assume that their spouse will inherit everything after they die, regardless of whether they have a will. This might be the case in many other states, but it differs from state to state. If you pass on without a will or estate plan in Texas, your...
Estate planning for unmarried Texas couples
Younger Texas couples aren’t rushing to get married anytime soon, and even older couples might have their reasons for holding off on saying “I do.” This doesn’t stop couples from staying together for entire lifetimes, though, nor should it. Marriage offers some...
What happens if you die without a will in Texas?
Texas families know the value of estate planning for achieving their final wishes. Estate planning protects your assets and your loved ones’ futures. It also assists you with future needs such as long-term care planning, placement of minors, pets and donations to your...