Understanding Your Rights as an Estate Beneficiary
Estate planning plays a vital role in determining how one's assets are allocated after their demise. Beneficiaries stand at the center of this process, as they are the individuals designated to receive assets from an estate. It's important for beneficiaries to recognize their rights as those inheriting. By understanding these rights,...
Why Is Having a Will Important in Estate Planning?
Many people procrastinate about making a will because they incorrectly assume that their loved ones will automatically receive their property after they die. In fact, dying intestate (not having a valid will at the time of your death) could leave the people you care most about empty-handed and...
Is a Handwritten Will Valid? Everything You Need to Know About Holographic Wills
Texas allows handwritten (holographic) wills, but usually, a typed will is a better option. There are some restrictions, however, on holographic wills in Texas that could invalidate a handwritten will under the right circumstances. Because of those rules, relying on a handwritten will can be risky and subject your loved ones to...
Top 5 Types of Trusts
What Are the Rights of a Trust Beneficiary in Texas?
The rights of the beneficiary of a trust in Texas will depend on the language of the trust and our state’s statutory and case law. Generally, the terms of the trust document will take precedence over the statutes about the duties of the trustee and the rights of the beneficiaries, but the...
What Are Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts (SLATs)?
Trusts offer many advantages: avoiding probate, managing distribution of assets, and ensuring that your wishes are carried out after your death. However, you might wonder if there are any benefits trusts provide to the living? The short answer is “Yes.” Texas trust attorneys have been working diligently to advise clients about the...
5 Things You May Not Know About Special Needs Trusts in Texas
Are Pet Trusts Available in Texas?
Using Trusts for Minors in Estate Planning
Minors cannot receive inheritances or property. Therefore, it is important to include provisions with an estate plan for a minor’s interest. Trusts are excellent tools for managing a minor’s interest in an estate until the minor is an adult. A Texas wills and trusts attorney can help you determine which type of trust...