Farming and ranching aren’t just jobs. They’re a way of life, often passed down through generations. But without a proper estate plan in place, that legacy can slip away, sometimes in just one generation. All too often, land that’s been in a family for decades is sold off and developed, simply because no one made …
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 …
Last week, I provided some basic information about what you should do when someone dies. This week I thought I would provide a list of what you should pull together after the funeral. Sometimes it is tough when you are dealing with grief and all the events related to funerals or celebrations of life. My …
While rare, some family members fight over cash, stocks and other large assets after a relative dies. But some of the most bitter fights are over personal items and trinkets. More than half of lawsuits over inheritances involve items worth less than 10 percent of a person’s estate, according to an article on dailyfinance.com. That’s because …
Estate planning can be complex, especially when you own property in multiple states. This can raise various legal considerations, potentially complicate the probate process, and increase the administrative burden on your heirs. Understanding the nuances of managing such a diverse portfolio can help streamline the process and ensure your assets are distributed according to your …
Continue reading “Ownership of Out of State Property in Estate Planning”
This week I thought I would provide a list of what you should pull together after a loved one dies. Sometimes it is tough when you are dealing with grief and all the events related to funerals or celebrations of life. My hope is this provides a quick and easy reminder to keep you focused. …
Several years ago, I had the pleasure of working with a wonderful and sweet lady in our office. Besides being a good attorney, she was always full of energy and smiling. After retirement, she and her husband moved to Pennsylviana to be close to family and enjoy grandkids. However, all that changed when she was …
We have seen a tremendous influx of people to Texas from other states in the past 5 years. Because estate planning is different for each state, new residents need to reconsider their existing estate plans in light of their recent move. Crossing borders can have profound and unforeseen implications for the future. Of course, Texas …
Continue reading “Welcome to Texas! Have you reviewed your Will?”
I missed getting an article out in September on Alzheimer’s disease, September is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. However, this is a subject close to my heart because my father, Oliver James Moak, suffered from this condition. Over time, the disease can change a loved one into a seemingly different person. Caring for a loved one with …
While it is rare, there are sad situations in which families fight after someone dies. Even more rare are disputes that arise between parents and their children while still living. Most people have been raised to be respectful to their parents and elders. However, in today’s world, I fear respect is becoming a preciously rare …
