When someone passes away, their estate typically goes through a legal process called probate. During this process, the deceased person’s assets are distributed to their heirs and any outstanding debts are settled. However, disputes can arise between heirs regarding who should serve as the personal representative, how the estate is handled, and the distribution of...KEEP READING

In the states that allow them, such as Texas, Ladybird Deeds are a relatively simple and useful tool that should be used more often. The Ladybird Deed allows one to automatically transfer real estate to a third party on death, by simply making a notation on the deed during their lifetime. The In re Estate...KEEP READING

Imagine you are appointed as the executor for a family member or loved one and, as part of the probate process, you discover that the decedent transferred their primary asset to another party during their lifetime. Also imagine that they did so when they were of sound mind and it appears that they did so...KEEP READING

In the Estate of Jackson, No. 14-16-00519-CV (Tex. App. – Houston 2017), . The Facts & Procedural History The decedent was not married and had no children. She was survived by two nephews and a niece. Six years before her death, the decedent completed a fill-in will that left everything to one of the nephews....KEEP READING

The probate process can present a number of challenges for surviving spouses. These challenges can include figuring out how to pay personal expenses when the primary liquid assets are tied up in probate. Texas law allows for a widow’s allowance to cover these expenses. The court in Estate of Nielsen, No. 06-17-00055-CV (Tex. App.–Texarakana 2017)...KEEP READING

Probate is the legal process by which a deceased person’s estate is settled and distributed to their heirs and beneficiaries. It can be a complex and time-consuming process that requires careful attention to detail and knowledge of Texas probate law. If you are responsible for managing a loved one’s estate or are going through the...KEEP READING

Many people enter into contracts with others to hold their property, with the understanding that the property will revert back to the original owner when the holder dies. It may be convenient to have another party hold property with the intent that the property reverts back to the owner. One way to accomplish this is...KEEP READING

Opening a bank account for a minor in Texas is a fantastic way to teach them about financial responsibility and independence. By having their account, they can learn how to manage their money, set financial goals, and develop healthy spending habits. Children can use their accounts to learn how to save money, create budgets, and...KEEP READING

In the state of Texas, wills are frequently challenged in court. This often occurs when one or more heirs feel that there was some wrongdoing or error that caused them to receive less than their fair share of the deceased’s estate. As a probate attorney in Houston, Texas, it is crucial to be aware of...KEEP READING

A divorce can be emotionally and financially taxing. One is often focused on getting through the process and finding a way to minimize losses. After the divorce, life is often about finding new routines and patterns and making life changes. Updating an estate plan may not even be on your radar at this point. The Haga...KEEP READING