When the marriage of Gina and Edward ended in divorce and it became necessary to allocate property, the trial court charged with ruling on this matter had to sort through multiple gifts made by Gina’s father while the couple was married. Understandably, Edward generally argued as much as possible that such gifts were made to …
While making a “house call” this week that involved a family’s bitter fight over property, it occured to me how disrespectful folks have gotten. We all have elders, I was raised to respect my elders even if I did not agree. Therefore, this week I will attempt to explain the importance of a Will and …
In the past, I have written articles on Pipelines and Eminent Domain. These were very popular and with the County announcing there is another pipeline coming through Walker County, I have written a follow up on pipeline negotiations. Thank you to Tiffany Dowell Lashmet with the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service for allowing me to …
Not only do I write Wills, I also see a lot of homemade Wills. All Wills are not the same and while there are some similarities, each situation requires thought and detail in the way their affairs are handled. Homemade or Will forms can cause many issues, so I thought I would present you …
One of the main components of a Will is the portion where the person making the Will (the Testator) names the Executor. Who and what is an Executor and what are some of the considerations you should take when selecting one is the topic this week. The Executor is the person who carries out the …
Many people misunderstand and are therefore afraid of the probate process. In an effort to avoid probate, they take many steps which may be to their families detriment if not done carefully and with guidance. I will start this week explaining what probate is. Probate is the process a person goes through in court …
In Texas, understanding portability and estate tax is not just advisable; it’s essential for anyone involved in estate planning with estates that exceed $30,000,000.00. Estates valued below $30,000,000.00 are exempt from estate taxes, but may need to consider portability. While most estates fall below $30,000,000 and that number seems like a high ceiling, with the …
If you are like me, raising your kids, working, trying to take care of yourself, and now caring for an aging parent(s)? That makes us part of the Sandwich Generation. We are not alone—almost half of America’s 40- and 50-year olds are in the same boat. Most of us have adjusted to balancing children, work …
Continue reading “How to Take Care of Yourself as You Take Care of Others”
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or making a change in lifestyle, purchasing a home is a major milestone. With that comes new responsibilities. In this week’s column I will address the steps you should take regarding those responsibilities. Be sure to update your address with key agencies. After settling into your new home, one of your first …
Continue reading “Important Estate Planning Steps for New Homeowners”
The inheritance you leave could be eaten away by taxes or given to the wrong person(s). This week, I will try to provide tips to avoid this. Everyone should have the basic estate plan components. A life insurance policy, a Will, a designation of agent to control disposition of remains, a durable power of attorney …
