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The holidays are a perfect time, while family and friends are gathered together (safely distanced, of course), to discuss whether your loved ones' estate planning and related legal matters are in order. It is an emotional subject to approach, but it is much better to be brave and tackle the subject than to avoid the discussion. Later regrets that plans which should have been made were not, will leave you with an even harder situation to deal with.

Tops 4 considerations: 1. Do you own the property outright? 2. Is carrying the note a smart investment? 3. Is it wise to take on the risk if the buyer can’t qualify for conventional third-party financing? 4. Are you willing to do the necessary legal work to protect yourself if the buyer defaults?

Setting up a living trust is the best way to ensure your assets are passed onto the right people if you pass away. So how do you start the process?

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.

An important component of an estate plan is a statutory durable power of attorney, otherwise called a general power of attorney. This power of attorney allows you to name an agent to carry on business-type activities on your behalf if for any reason you are not able to do so yourself.

When researching potential attorneys for your case, always do your homework. Choosing an unqualified or dishonest attorney could not only result in a negative outcome for your legal situation, but it could also cost you more money in the long run.

Texas law has recognized an estate planning trick that is extremely effective and 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.

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.

People with blended families have the greatest need for estate planning in the state of Texas. Here are a few reasons why.

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.