Category Archives: Estate Planning
What a power of attorney can and cannot do
Many clients are given powers of attorney for their finances when working with their estate planning attorney. They often file the documents away without ever showing them either to their intended agent or to the financial institution involved. Even if the agent knows the paperwork exists, they often assume they just need to take the […]
I have my Dad’s will who just passed away. Now What?
This is a typical situation where one of the children had or finds the deceased parent’s will and is not quite sure what to do. The adult child may not be quite sure what should happen next. Texas law requires that a will be admitted to probate within four years of death in order for […]
Potential Tax Effect on Alimony Payments in Texas
The tax legislation is not finalized yet. But the version coming from the House of Representatives changes the present law which currently allows a tax deduction to the spouse making the payments and is taxable income to the recipient. Many divorce settlements in Texas are reached through mediation where the divorcing couple and their attorneys […]
Five Reasons to Make a Will
Texas law makes it much more economical to probate a simple will than many other states. You can provide in the will for independent administration so that your heirs can easily take the actions to carry out your wishes. Without a will, your heirs will have to file for an heirship proceeding, costing two to […]
