Think of your estate plan as a living entity that needs to evolve with the changes in your life. Various life events such as the birth of a child, children growing up, changes in the family dynamics, fluctuations in your investment portfolio, career shifts, health changes, or relocation can all impact your estate plan. External …
It was recently brought to my attention that while many adult children are serving as caretakers for their aging parents, very few receive reimbursement for their time or trouble. I am not surprised by this and personally feel this is one’s obligation to their parents. Many children and grandchildren feel that helping their aging relative …
One of the greatest concerns for my clients is that they may end up in a nursing home. This not only means a great loss of personal autonomy, but also a tremendous financial price. Many seniors are watching their retirement funds or “nest eggs” shrink as the financial crisis affecting our country deepens. As a …
The Fifth Amendment states, “nor shall private property be taken for public use without just compensation.” My initial, inexperienced impression was that this clause meant just what it said. And over the years, my conviction has not changed that this straightforward language indeed indicates an unequivocal truth—that the Constitution prohibits takings for private use. I …
We plan our vacations, can spend hours choosing a car to buy, and can even spend time selecting a spot to eat dinner. If you are a business owner, you spend time budgeting and buying office equipment. Rancher spend time preparing feeding, working their cattle, and vacinating them. However, we all seem to push estate …
Another primary is upon us. This will be the first year without Mom and I will miss discussing the candidates with her. I had a conversation with a friend about voting, and they had never voted. So I thought I might try again to encourage folks to vote. My family has always challenged each other …
If you did not already realize, Texas is a buyer beware state when it comes to purchasing real estate. Thus, an Earnest Money Contract necessary in a real estate transaction. Once you have settled on a home or commercial property you want to buy and have negotiated the basic terms of the purchase, your agreement …
As we enter a new year, it is time to remind folks of there is a sunset provision that may dramatically change the estate tax. This is because while the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 doubled the gift and estate tax exemption, unless Congress acts before January 1, 2026, this exemption is scheduled …
Continue reading “Estate Tax Exemption Change is Coming (Maybe)”
When assisting my clients with their estate planning or transferring their loved one’s assets after death, I am occasionally asked about surviving spouses veterans benefits. We have a wonderful gentleman here in Walker County that helps families with VA benefits, Robert “Bob” Kane, Jr., County Veterans Services Officer. Mr. Kane provided me with information for …
When Someone You Love Dies In my office, we are long on both Probate and Life Experience. Having focused my law practice on estate planning and probate, I have helped thousands with transferring their assets after a loved one passes (probate) and likewise I’ve guided thousands with drafting their estate planning documents to avoid issues …
Continue reading “A Practical Guide When Someone You Love Dies”
