Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about your passing is not something you really want to consider. However, spending a little time now planning can greatly help your loved ones in the event that you do. Based upon Texas law, your minor child ( a child who is under the age of 18) may end up inheriting your property if you pass away. Due to their age, a minor child is unable to legally manage property themselves. Not having a Will means that additional steps will need to be taken in order to protect your child’s legal rights to their inherited property. The time you spend now working on planning will help both you and your loved ones have a plan for how the property will be handled, who will handle the property on your child’s behalf, and may ultimately save your loved one time and money in the future. 

Most people think estate planning only includes planning for when you pass away.  However, the term "Estate Planning" typically includes both planning for the transfer of your assets at your death and creating documents that can also assist you during your lifetime. 

For Your Lifetime Planning, we will work together to draft your legal directive documents that will assist and impact you during your lifetime.  These documents may inform your medical professionals about the type of medical care you would like to receive if you are unable to inform them yourself. Documents may also be drafted to assist you with the management of your finances when you are unable to do so on your own.

For Your Passing Planning, we will work together to create a plan for you and your loved ones.  Legal documents can be written with instructions on how your estate assets and your remains will be handled upon your passing.  

First, it's great that you have documents prepared. Second, although you had your documents prepared, it is generally recommended that if it has been longer than five years since you drafted your documents you should have them re-reviewed and possibly updated. Life situations, circumstances, and the law all may have possibly changed since the time you drafted your documents.  Events such as the birth of new child, the death or incapacitation of designated agent or representative, or a change in marital status may have also occurred which may warrant you having your documents reviewed and possibly revised even sooner than five years. 

Once you are considered an adult in Texas (Age 18) you are able to start your own planning. I know that after you turn age 18 estate and lifetime planning is not the first thing that comes to your mind. However, drafting a few documents can make things easier for you and your family in the event of an emergency. Having legal documents such as a power of attorney and medical power of attorney, can give your loved one access to your records to be able to assist you in the event that you are not able to do so. 

I consider working together with my Clients as being a part of a team. We come together to share information and work towards a plan that will work for you and your loved ones. For my Clients, part of the process of you filling out your Client Information Forms is we are also creating your plan. Gathering your information is a necessary step of your plan so you can take the time to organize and think about how the information will help both you and your loved ones.

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For Potential Clients, filling out your Intake Form helps me determine how I may be able to assist you. You will receive your Potential Client Intake Form after you schedule an appointment with me. Once I receive your completed Potential Client Intake Form, we will meet to further discuss your legal needs.

It is best for most people to make important decisions while they are not under a time of stress.  Medical, legal, and financial decisions may all have to be made on your behalf at some point.  Waiting until there is a time of crisis to make these important decisions only adds to the pressure and stress of the situation at hand.  A little time spent now gathering information, thinking about your loved ones, and making a plan about how you want to be cared for and your estate handled is a gift that you can give to both your loved ones and yourself.