Blog


Mar

7

2024

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Do I Need A Living Trust? [Estate Planning Q&A Video Series]

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

Many people have heard the term living trust and think it is a magical estate planning tool for everyone. For some people, a living trust truly is a smart way to handle their estate, but for others, it is an unnecessary expense.

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Feb

22

2024

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Use This Slick Trick To Transfer Real Estate Without Probate In Texas

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

Texas law has recognized an estate planning trick that is extremely effective to help avoid probate and is low cost, called a deed with an enhanced retained life estate or “Lady Bird” deed. This tool can be used for all types of real estate interests.

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Feb

22

2024

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Advance Care Planning Tools To Help Avoid Probate

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

Sometimes, even when a person has drawn up a Will, probate of the Will may not be necessary. Advance planning with probate-alternative documents can avoid the need for probate in many cases.

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Feb

15

2024

image for What Is A Muniment Of Title Probate, And When Is It Appropriate?

What Is A Muniment Of Title Probate, And When Is It Appropriate?

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

Texas law provides for a shortened, less complicated, less expensive form of probate in specific circumstances. This is called probate as a muniment of title. It is a simple process compared to a full, regular probate.

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Feb

7

2024

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Cost Of A Prenuptial Or Postnuptial Agreement

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

I have written about how a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can be an element in an effective financial plan or an estate plan. Many people believe that it is very expensive to have a prenup or postnup drawn up. The expense will depend totally on the situation, and may not be nearly as large as you might think.

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Feb

1

2024

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When Can You Do A Small Estate Affidavit Procedure In Texas?

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

Has a loved one passed away without a Will? In some cases, you can avoid a lot of frustration by using a Small Estate Affidavit to legally transfer assets at very little expense to you.

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Jan

24

2024

image for Do You Have a Blended Family? Estate Planning is Critical for You

Do You Have a Blended Family? Estate Planning is Critical for You

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

Estate planning is especially important for people with blended families in the state of Texas. Without a Will, probate issues can be complicated and the result may not be what the deceased person might have wanted. If you have a blended family, here's how to provide for your estate to pass as you desire.

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Jan

3

2024

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3 Reasons You May Need A Guardianship

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

Guardianships are a complicated legal proceeding. Most people have no clue exactly how complicated and expensive they are. In some situations, however, a guardianship is required to manage the affairs of a loved one.

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Dec

14

2023

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How Do I Get A Will? [Estate Planning Q&A Video Series]

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

Today, there are many ways you can go about getting a Will. To ensure your Will accomplishes your wishes while also avoiding the greatest expense and complications, you should consult with an experienced estate planning attorney.

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Dec

7

2023

image for Do I Need A Trust? - When You Should & Shouldn't Set Up A Living Trust

Do I Need A Trust? - When You Should & Shouldn't Set Up A Living Trust

Posted by: Adair M. Buckner

I am frequently asked by prospective estate planning clients, "Do I need a trust?" The answer is the classic one: It depends. They are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether setting up a living trust is a good idea for you should be discussed with an estate planning attorney who has full knowledge of your assets, family circumstances, and desires.

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