An executor, also called a personal representative, plays a vital role in handling a person’s estate after they pass away. During the probate process, they perform many different tasks to manage, protect and distribute the estate. What does this involve? File the will...
If you’re a parent to adult children, one concern you might have when estate planning is guaranteeing that your kids receive equitable shares of your estate. If yours is like most families, the thought of discussing inheritance may seem uncomfortable. However, it is...
Living trusts safeguard a grantor’s property while they're alive and determine who receives certain assets when they pass away. When you create a living trust, you transfer ownership of your property to the trust while maintaining control as the trustee. Living trusts...
The probate courts provide crucial oversight during estate administration. The courts help ensure that heirs receive their inheritances when an individual dies without a will. They can also take action when the beneficiaries of an estate assert that the personal...
Planning for the future can be difficult, sometimes especially when it comes to making healthcare decisions for aging parents. Many families avoid discussing medical power of attorney (MPOA) options until a crisis forces the issue. Unfortunately, waiting too long can...
When a child enters the family parents often want to do everything they can to protect their child. An important step towards better ensuring this protection is designating a guardian in your estate plan. This decision can safeguard your children's future should...
Somebody has to take charge of an estate when a testator dies -- and that's usually the executor that they named in their will. The executor is responsible for following the instructions left in the will and managing the settlement of an estate. Every executor is...
There are many reasons why people may want to draft powers of attorney. A college student leaving home for school may want to empower a family member who lives nearby to handle their affairs in an emergency. Those dealing with chronic or progressive medical conditions...
Establishing a will is generally beneficial for adults of all ages and life situations. Some people draft wills after having children to protect their progeny from a tragic scenario. Others establish wills when they achieve professional success, start small businesses...
A personal representative manages the deceased person's estate in Texas probate proceedings. This role can be filled by an executor (if named in the will) or an administrator (if there is no will or the named executor cannot serve). A vital part of this job involves...