trusts

Trusts 101: Testamentary vs. Revocable vs. Irrevocable

If you’re thinking about estate planning and have begun doing preliminary research, you have probably seen all different kinds of trusts mentioned in the literature. Trusts pop up over and over in articles about estate … Read more

Texas estate planning

Texas Estate Planning

If you are old enough to have navigated to an estate planning blog, you are old enough to think about your estate plan. If the term “estate plan” sounds too much like focusing on death, … Read more

texas probate

Texas Probate and Trust Administration

If you have started working on your own estate plan, then you have heard about probate and non-probate assets. Your estate planning lawyer has probably given you advice on how to keep as much of … Read more

The Five Most-Common Probate Mistakes Made in Texas

Texas is known for its big skies, generous portion sizes, and straightforward probate process. Anyone who has ever played with a Rubik’s Cube knows that straightforward doesn’t mean simple, however. While the steps required of probating a will in Texas are easy to follow for those who are professionally trained they are not without pitfalls.

The Importance Of Estate Planning In Second Marriages

If you recently got married for the second time and do not have a will or estate plan, you risk the state deciding how to divide your assets on your passing. An estate planning attorney from Hailey-Petty Law Firm, PLLC can help prevent this and avoid other potential legal challenges.

What Is A Durable Power Of Attorney?

Having a durable power of attorney in place can eliminate uncertainty in the event of medical emergencies or incapacitation. Contact our experienced estate planning attorneys at Hailey-Petty Law Firm, PLLC to learn more.

What Does it Mean to Be Named Executor of an Estate in Texas?

Being named executor of a loved one’s estate can be overwhelming. Inevitably, the responsibility arrives at a time already rife with stress and rarely is a person well-prepared for the job. If you are in this position, educating yourself about the scope of the executor’s role is an important first step.

The Importance of Guardianship Designations in Estate Planning

A Designation of Guardianship serves two essential purposes. First, it allows you to designate a person to act as your guardian should you become incapacitated, and second, it allows you to designate a guardian to any minor children or children with special needs in case of your premature death. Each of these purposes presents a lot to think about and so it is worth looking at them separately.

The Many Forms of Texas Probate

In the after math of losing a loved one, nobody relishes the experience of navigating a complex, often trying legal process. This said, not all probate experiences are equal. Depending on the process required for your case, the experience can be relatively painless, especially if you entrust an experienced attorney to guide you through the many steps.