We often get asked about joint bank accounts, and how an account owner’s death impacts the ownership of said account. There is a lot of misinformation surrounding what the right of survivorship designation can and cannot accomplish. In the January 2019 Texas Bar Journal, Gerry...
Have you looked at the back of your Texas Driver’s License lately? No? Go ahead and get it out of your wallet. I’ll wait . . . See those first two boxes? In an emergency, first responders can look at the back of your license to...
Even the most organized, proactive person is often at a loss for “what to do next” when faced with the death of a loved one. Overwhelming grief and sadness often cloud decision making. However, there are practical steps that can to be taken to help...
Scam alert! Land recordings are public record. When you buy property or transfer it, the deed is recorded with the county clerk. You are able to get the recorded deeds for your property from the county clerk for a few dollars. However, sometimes homeowners receive...
If a loved one dies and does not have an organized, comprehensive estate plan in place, you may not know whether or not your loved one had life insurance. So what can you do if a loved one dies and you are unsure about their...
On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges confirmed that same-sex couples have the same right to marry as opposite-sex couples. So that means that same-sex couples’ estates will be treated the same by the courts, right? Well, unfortunately, it’s not...
Many of us know someone who suffers with a form Dementia, the most common being Alzheimer’s Disease. Dementia in all its forms slowly rips independence away from those who suffer its ravages. While no amount of planning can eliminate the emotional pain encountered when a...
You should have a power of attorney if: · You want to assign a representative for yourself should someone else need to act on your behalf in the future. · You have been diagnosed with a serious illness. · You have children that must be provided for if...
Not only do I have some good news, but I have good news coming from our Texas Legislature! In 2017, our representatives chose to clarify the Texas Estates Code regarding power of attorney so that things are easier for both the agent acting with power...
Agent – a person who is authorized to act on behalf of another Estate Administration – the process of settling an estate after someone dies Executor – the person you designate in your last will and testament who will work with the attorney to settle your estate Grantor Trust – any trust over which...