Happy New Year from the Kalish Law Office! People often use the New Year as motivation to start over on aspects of their life they are unsatisfied with in the form of the infamously-difficult-to-follow-through-with New Years' Resolution. The New Year presents an opportunity to rectify whatever emotions or actions you withheld the previous year. If you have a New Years' Resolution, we hope … [Read more...] about New Year, New Me
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Family Heirlooms: Gift or Guilt?
"Family heirlooms" can present a problem when drafting a will or when dividing property in an estate. When I am helping clients with their wills, I have noticed that this is often a sticking point. They sometimes agonize over which family member should inherit an item, a collection, or a piece of land. Since I help Executors in probate cases, I also see how heirlooms are ultimately divided. I … [Read more...] about Family Heirlooms: Gift or Guilt?
What is a “Simple Will”?
Most people think that their Last Will and Testament is a “simple” one, but that is not always the case. A “simple will” is a will that leaves the person’s entire estate to their spouse, or to their children equally. Or to their spouse first, then to their children equally if their spouse does not survive them. Having a step-family can create a need for a more complex will (but not … [Read more...] about What is a “Simple Will”?
What Are my Duties as an Executor?
So, you have gone through the Texas probate process and you are now a new Executor of the Estate. How much is going to be on your plate? What comes next? Here is what you need to know: The process doesn't end when you are appointed. In fact, your work is just beginning. You are a fiduciary. Under the law, you must act in the best interest of the estate and meet certain obligations in … [Read more...] about What Are my Duties as an Executor?
Success Is In the Follow Up!
It's great to make plans and it's great to start projects, but what good do they do if you never finish them? It isn't uncommon for us to regularly hear comments like these around the law office; I came to see you about this legal problem 2 years ago and never did anything about it and now I am getting sued; I meant to send this creditor evidence that I had already paid this … [Read more...] about Success Is In the Follow Up!
Can I Travel With My Children While Getting a Divorce?
If you are getting a divorce in Texas and you have children, you may want to take a trip with your children during the time the divorce is pending. Are you allowed to do it? Well, the first question to ask yourself is whether you are under any court orders. If so, then check them to see if you have any travel restrictions. Be aware that just because you haven't actually been to court … [Read more...] about Can I Travel With My Children While Getting a Divorce?
I’m too Young to have a will…. aren’t I?
Most people in their twenties do not consider getting a will to be high on their list of priorities. That is understandable. However, there are many reasons why you should consider having a will. Here are the most important ones: You have a child (whether the child lives with you or not) You have any assets (even a bank account, car, or personal items) You have debts and they could … [Read more...] about I’m too Young to have a will…. aren’t I?
Texas Employers, Here are Some FREE Resources to Help you Run your Business!
The Texas Workforce Commission's Office of the Commissioner Representing Employers ("TWC") has an employer hotline to answer employer questions about basic legal issues related to hiring, work-separation, and other employment and post-employment issues. The number is 800-832-9394. There are also free resources available online. Check out the publication, "Especially for Texas Employers" that … [Read more...] about Texas Employers, Here are Some FREE Resources to Help you Run your Business!
