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Estate planning is even more important for LGBTQ individuals. In reflection of Pride Week, let’s discuss the necessity of estate planning for LGBTQ individuals and couples.

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.

I frequently am asked by prospective estate planning clients, "Do I need a trust?" The answer is the classic one: It depends.

Trusts are an excellent tool to provide for the future needs for yourself or your loved ones. A trust can be especially beneficial if you have children with special needs, including minor children and adult children with disabilities. You can also create a trust for yourself if you need to apply for Medicaid and your assets exceed the limits to qualify.

Many people are afraid of drawing up a will and doing other estate planning because of the perceived high cost. The truth is, drawing up a will is a small cost compared to the cost of probate of an estate if you die without a will and own almost any property.

An independent administration is the form of probate available when a will contains the proper legal provisions authorizing the independent administration of the estate. This means you can avoid extensive court supervision of the handling of the estate once the will has been admitted to probate.

Estate planning isn't just for rich or older individuals. Even young, asset-poor 20-somethings should start thinking about how their property will be distributed in the event of a tragedy. Drawing up an estate plan is not as much an action you need to take for yourself, but one you should take for your loved ones.

There are times when a Living Trust is a smart estate planning tool that can simplify or avoid probate, and save your family thousands of dollars. Below are some of the reasons a Living Trust might be a good tool for your estate planning: