When a person creates an estate plan – even if it’s a simple will – they should name an executor (known under Texas law as a “personal representative”) to handle the administration of the estate. This includes everything from paying final bills and filing the last...
A beneficiary is an individual who is legally entitled to inherit something when a person dies. Generally, this is carried out via the instructions of a will. Nonetheless, different beneficiaries may receive different sums of money or assets. There are several types...
Things can be very complicated for families if a loved one dies without a will. What can be even more complicated, however, is finding multiple wills and not being certain which one – if any of them – reflects their wishes when they died. Further, if you find more...
If you have recently lost a loved one, chances are you may encounter the probate process. Unfortunately, probate has a notoriety for being contentious, lengthy and sometimes, resource-consuming. It doesn’t get any better if someone decides to dispute the testator’s...
Estate and trust disputes can be emotionally charged and complex, often involving family members, money, and deeply held emotions. In these situations, effective communication becomes paramount. Whether you're a beneficiary, a personal representative, or a trustee,...
Trusts can sometimes lead to disputes when a trustee and a beneficiary disagree on how the money should be used. For example, perhaps the money was put into an educational trust. The beneficiary believes that buying a new computer is an educational cost, but the...
As a trustee, you hold and manage property on behalf of the beneficiaries named in the trust. That makes you responsible for protecting its assets and following the trust maker or settlor’s wishes. You also have a responsibility to those whom the trust benefits....
Serving as an estate executor or managing a trust is a great honor and a massive responsibility. Like most, you probably strive to act ethically and responsibly when performing your duties. Unfortunately, even the most diligent executors can face allegations of...
Experiencing the death of a loved one is a significant emotional event. When the probate process becomes contentious, it can add another layer of stress to an already difficult time. Addressing the emotional aspects of a probate dispute can prove to be crucial in...
A parent, grandparent or other loved one has left you a considerable amount of money or other assets in a trust. You learn that it’s what’s called a “conditional” or “incentive” trust. These are not uncommon. For example, a parent will often establish a trust for a...