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What Is A Muniment Of Title Probate, And When Is It Appropriate?
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. This funny-sounding procedure really means that your loved one's Will is officially recognized as valid by the probate court. It then becomes part of the public record in the county where the probate was filed as notice to third parties to honor the terms of the Will to transfer property to the beneficiaries. This is a simple process compared to a full, regular probate.
Read MoreThe Cost Of A Full Dependent Administration In Texas
In this series of blogs, I have outlined various different types of probates and probate alternatives to help you settle an estate and understand the potential costs. A dependent administration is significantly more expensive than any other type of probate. Wise estate planning could avoid this high cost.
Read MoreShould You Consult An Attorney Before Signing A Real Estate Contract?
The price you pay for this advice before signing a contract can easily save you many thousands of dollars and lots of headaches and trouble in the future. A review of a standard residential purchase contract generally would not be more than a few hundred dollars. More complicated contracts, of course, would cost more to review or draft, but the cost would still be far less than any negotiation or litigation later to address problems that arise.
Read MoreCost Of A Prenuptial Or Postnuptial Agreement
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.
Read MoreWhat Is A Small Estate Affidavit Proceeding And What Does It Cost?
In this series of blogs, I am outlining various different types of probates or probate alternatives to settle an estate and their likely costs. As I mentioned in the introduction to this series, the cost is predominantly determined by the type of procedure followed.
Read MoreShould I Consult An Attorney Before Signing A Lease?
Entering into a legal contract to lease property can be overwhelming, and you may be uncertain about what you are committing yourself to. Whether you are looking to sign a residential or commercial lease, having an attorney assist you can be helpful and will ease your concerns.
Read MoreWhy You Need A Living Will And Medical Power Of Attorney
If you have ever gone through a hospital admissions process, you've likely been asked if you have a living will (also known as a directive to physicians) and a medical power of attorney. Here are the main benefits of both—and why they're worth the investment.
Read MoreThe Average Cost Of A Determination Of Heirship Proceeding In Texas
In some situations where a loved one passes away without a Will, you may need a determination of heirship in order to pass on their estate. If you find yourself in this situation, make sure you have an experienced attorney to guide you through the steps involved. Otherwise, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the process.
Read MoreUse This Slick Trick To Transfer Real Estate Without Probate In Texas
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.
Read MoreHoliday Travel: Why Parents Of Young Children Need Wills
Most young parents don't want to even think about the possibility of death and see no need for estate planning. However, if a tragedy struck and both parents of minor children were killed, the situation left for their loved ones to deal with is extremely complicated, expensive, and emotional.
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