If you have a Last Will and Testament that was created before your child turned 18 years old, you may now want to consider updating it. Updating a will can be done by either 1) having a new will that takes the place of the old one; or 2) doing a "codicil" which is a specifically worded and witnessed legal document that attaches to the current will. Once your child is an adult, you can … [Read more...] about Should Your Adult Child Now be Named as Executor of Your Will?
Having a Will is Important, Especially for Stepfamilies
Taking the time to create a plan for your family is very important. It is even more important in stepfamilies. In the State of Texas, if you don't make the decision on how you want your property divided, then the laws of the state will. For instance, if you are married now, and have children from a previous marriage or relationship, the law specifies how your personal property and real … [Read more...] about Having a Will is Important, Especially for Stepfamilies
Don’t Let Visitation Disputes Spoil Your Kids’ Holidays
Holidays are a time for families. They are fun, but they can be stressful, too. Don't let visitation disputes spoil the holidays for you and your kids. Here are some tips to help keep things running smoothly. Make sure that you know what is in your court orders. Make sure that everyone is on the same page. Discuss things with your ex to be certain that you both know what is going … [Read more...] about Don’t Let Visitation Disputes Spoil Your Kids’ Holidays
November is National Adoption Month!
Celebrating National Adoption Day! Every November is National Adoption Month in the United States. Saturday, November 23rd is National Adoption Day! There are special events held to celebrate and agencies, individuals and professionals who are involved in the adoption community work to raise awareness. Courts may hold special events or special docket times for the adoptions taking place in … [Read more...] about November is National Adoption Month!
Thinking About Writing on Your Original Will? Don’t do it!
Writing on your original will can invalidate the entire document. It doesn’t matter if you initial next to what you have written. Some people feel that once the document is signed and notarized they can feel free to make changes themselves. This is not true. Keep your original document safe, clean and dry. Don’t eat near it, set a coffee cup on it, get it wet, or jot notes on it. And it is … [Read more...] about Thinking About Writing on Your Original Will? Don’t do it!
Why You May Need a New Will After You File for Divorce
It is important to make sure that your will reflects your current circumstances. Filing for divorce is a drastic change in circumstances. That means that you should consider whether or not your will still reflects your wishes. There is no "legal separation" in Texas. That means that if you were to die during your divorce, no matter how bitter the divorce, no matter how long it has been since … [Read more...] about Why You May Need a New Will After You File for Divorce
When Should You Update your Will?
Once signed, is your Last Will & Testament good "forever"? If not, what are the most common events that should make you consider updating your will? Normally a Last Will & Testament should be written with enough flexibility that it does not need to be continually updated. However, it is a good idea to review it once a year to make sure it is still current. There are some … [Read more...] about When Should You Update your Will?
Is Probate Law the Same in All States?
Probate is “the legal process that officially proves the validity of a will. This includes an inventory of the decedent's property, resolving all debts and claims, and distribution of the decedent's estate."Black's Law Dictionary Although taking care of a deceased person's estate does include gathering the debts and determining whether or not there are any Federal Taxes due, the … [Read more...] about Is Probate Law the Same in All States?
