A homestead carries memories and legal protections. When the estate needs liquidity, you may have to sell the home—yet you still want to respect the surviving spouse or children who live there. In Houston probate, you can balance compassion and efficiency by planning the sale process around homestead rights, notices,…
Houston Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney Blog
Harris County Determination of Heirship When No Will Exists
When a loved one dies without a will, you still need a court order that identifies who inherits. In Harris County, a determination of heirship provides that clarity so banks, title companies, and buyers can act. The process can move efficiently if you prepare evidence, find disinterested witnesses, and file…
Untangling Decades-Old Deeds in Dallas Probate Court
Old deeds tell long stories. Names change, tracts split, and handwritten notes morph into title problems that confuse buyers and stall probate. When you inherit Dallas property with a paper trail that starts in the 1970s—or earlier—you need a plan to restore clarity. A careful chain-of-title project turns a mystery…
Independent Administration in Dallas County
Speed matters in probate. Vendors want payment, lenders ask for proof of authority, and heirs hope for clarity. In Dallas County, independent administration can compress the process from months to weeks, but only if the will gives you the right tools. By drafting and filing with precision, you unlock a…
Handling Greenbelt and Watershed Restrictions During Austin Probate Sales
Selling estate property in Austin looks straightforward until greenbelt overlays and watershed rules enter the picture. Those layers can slow closings, shrink buyer pools, and surprise you with extra permits. When you prepare early, you cut weeks from the timeline and protect sale price. A calm, document-first approach turns a…
Estate Planning for Dallas Physicians—Guarding Against Malpractice Creditors
Your calling serves patients, but it also exposes wealth to risk. Even with strong insurance, a single claim, business dispute, or personal guarantee can threaten savings. A Dallas-ready estate plan builds layers of protection while keeping life simple for your family. Start With the Protections Texas Already Gives You Texas…
Community Property Agreements for Second Marriages in Dallas
Blended families carry both joy and complexity. You want to care for your new spouse and still honor promises to children from a prior marriage. Texas community-property rules add unique opportunities—and risks. A customized agreement brings clarity now and prevents conflict later. Start by Labeling What Belongs Where Property you…
Pet Trusts for Austin Families
Your pets are family. You want them fed, loved, and safe even if something happens to you. A pet trust turns that wish into a binding plan, providing money, care instructions, and oversight that lasts for your pet’s lifetime. With a few decisions today, you can guarantee tomorrow’s care. Why…
Protecting Austin Start-Up Equity in Your Estate Plan
Your equity can be life-changing. Founder shares, incentive stock options, and RSUs often outrun the value of your home. If you do not plan for those assets, probate delays and tax traps can chew through gains. A clear Austin-focused plan keeps voting control steady, captures tax breaks, and gets money…
Keeping a Greenbelt Home in the Family—Austin Conservation Easements and Estate Planning
Your Austin-area homestead may border a greenbelt or sit on acreage that frames hill-country views. If you want your children to inherit that land without pressure to subdivide or sell, a conservation easement can help. This voluntary agreement limits development while preserving tax benefits and long-term family control. What a…