With the influx of people to Texas in the last few years, it occurs to me that many may not be familiar with the system of Probate in Texas. Probate is one of the most misunderstood and prehaps scariest words in the legal language, probate is simply the administration of a deceased person’s property or …
Many of my clients have heard me tell the story of my grandfather clock. My grandmother, Pauline K. Smith (MeMe), gave me this clock. Like many families, we had Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter with our family at MeMe’s house. These traditional family get togethers are etched in my mind. One Easter, MeMe asked all in …
Another primary is upon us. I had a conversation with a friend about voting, and they asked about some of the judicial candidates. This reminded me of Mom and I discussing the candidates as well. So I thought I might stress it is important to do some research into those running for office and don’t …
From me (“the wishor”) to you (“the wishee”) please accept without obligation, implied or implicit, my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, politically correct, low stress, non-addictive, gender neutral, celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your …
Merry Christmas! As an Aggie, I love tradition and it is time yet again for another great Christmas tradition. This makes the 25th year. So, gather your parties around the fire or window unit (if in Texas), whether plaintiff or defendant, ad litem, guardian or children (natural born and adopted), to hear The Night Before Christmas, …
Continue reading “THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, LEGALLY SPEAKING”
After the Last Will and Testament, power of attorneys, and medical directives are created and the other crucial estate planning components are addressed, take some time to consider your unique family situation and the details that would make the transition more difficult to navigate following a death. As anyone who has lost a spouse or …
This week I will provide tips for getting your estate plan organized. Before you sit down with your estate planning attorney, there are a few things you should do to make the process go a simply as possible. First, you need to define your goals. If you were to pass away, who would you want …
My youngest son is attending Texas A&M Univeristy and a member of the Corps of Cadets. Due to his commitment to Texas A&M, he will not be able to come home and vote on Election Day. So, he filed out paperwork to mail in his ballet. I am proud that he values the importance of …
I have found it is common for families to use multiple party accounts to assist in paying bills and transferring assets. Multiple party accounts are important non-probate transfer mechanisms because these accounts are used widely, easy to understand, and inexpensive to obtain. Therefore, in this week’s column I will discuss three of the most recognized …
The recent rains have resulted in flooding in areas not previously affected. While there are a number of possible reasons, highway expansion, construction of new homes/subdivisions, silt build up in area lakes and creeks, the resulting flooded areas can’t be ignored. This reminded me that it is a good practice to review your insurance policies …
Continue reading “Read Your Insurance Policy – It Is Important”
