Divorce is more common now than it was in the past, as is remarriage. Depending on how long a prior marriage lasted, the former couple may have done a certain amount of estate planning together. When that is the case, it is important to understand how a subsequent marriage can impact the estate planning from a […]
Our lives are full of everyday superstitions. Knock on wood, don’t step on sidewalk cracks, and that talking about bad things make them more likely to happen. This last one is among the most given reasons why people don’t make estate plans. “If I talk about it, then I’ll die” goes the excuse. Unfortunately, this is […]
When two people get married, the property they obtain during their marriage is called marital property. This includes anything from real property like homes and rental properties, stock options, investment accounts, heirlooms, and employment income. A common assumption is that spouses want to share their property once they’re married. This assumption is not always true, however. […]
According to a 2019 survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 7 percent of surveyed adults were living with an unmarried partner. This number is up from 3 percent in 1995.[1] More people, such as yourself, are entering long-term committed relationships without getting married. Unfortunately for unmarried partners, married couples tend to enjoy greater protection from […]
The most common stated goal of estate planning is to avoid probate. While a relatively straightforward process in Texas, probate can be somewhat costly and does require a time investment. Finally, when probating a will, that information becomes a matter of public record, all of which most people prefer to avoid. Whether or not your estate […]
Real estate is more than just your primary residence. It can include other real estate such as a vacation home or a rental property. Depending upon the type of real estate you own, the ideal form of title can vary. Below, we take a look at the different types of real estate and make suggestions about […]
We all rely on our friends, family, and colleagues to help us through life’s challenges. These trusted individuals can also be incredibly important when setting up an estate plan. It is vital to appoint a fiduciary to act on your behalf. A fiduciary acts on your behalf, carrying out your wishes should you become incapacitated or […]
For most people, the phrase “power of attorney” means very little. Even for those educated on the subject, it is easy to forget exactly who serves what role and why. Whether you are unfamiliar with the concept or simply need of a refresher, keep reading to learn what it means to be an agent under a […]
