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# Hailey-Petty Law Firm, PLLC

## Sitemaps
- [XML Sitemap](https://haileypettylaw.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Why Every New Austin Homeowner Needs a Transfer on Death Deed (TODD)](https://haileypettylaw.com/new-austin-homeowners-need-transfer-on-death-deed/): Summary: A transfer-on-death deed for a home in Texas lets you name a beneficiary to receive your house automatically at your death, with no court process. For new Austin homeowners, the transfer-on-death deed is one of the simplest and most powerful estate-planning tools available.
- [How Much Does Estate Planning Cost in Texas?](https://haileypettylaw.com/how-much-does-estate-planning-cost-in-texas/): Summary: Estate planning costs in Texas range from a few hundred dollars for a basic will in a DIY platform to several thousand for a comprehensive plan with trusts. What you pay depends on your documents, your attorney's fee structure, and how complex your estate is.
- [Temporary vs. Permanent Guardianship in Texas: What San Antonio Families Should Know](https://haileypettylaw.com/temporary-vs-permanent-guardianship/): Quick Summary: Texas guardianship decisions come down to two issues: what authority is needed and how long that authority should last. A guardian may be appointed over the person, the estate, or both. The court may also grant temporary emergency authority or approve a longer-term guardianship after a full court process. Knowing the difference between temporary vs permanent guardianship before you file can help you choose the right path for your family.
- [A Successor’s Guide to Trust Administration in Austin: Roles and Risks](https://haileypettylaw.com/successors-guide-to-trust-administration-in-austin/): What Executors and Trustees Need to Know
- [Estate Planning for High-Earning Professionals in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-for-high-earning-professionals/): A San Antonio physician suffers a sudden medical emergency. No trust exists, and no updated will is in place. In a moment, decisions about a medical practice and investment accounts fall into the abyss of legal uncertainty.
- [How to Avoid a Contested Will in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/avoiding-contested-will-in-texas/): Quick Summary: A will contest can freeze an estate for a year or more and drain it through legal fees, all while your family argues in probate court. The good news is that most contests are preventable. Whether a will holds up in Texas usually comes down to three things decided long before anyone dies: how the will was signed, whether the person had clear mental capacity, and whether the document explains the choices that surprise people.
- [How to Choose the Right Executor or Trustee in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/choosing-the-right-executor-or-trustee-in-texas/): Summary: Choosing an executor or trustee in Texas is one of the most important decisions in any estate plan. Texas law allows individual, professional, and corporate executors, and the choice shapes how smoothly your estate moves through probate court.
- [Estate Planning for Couples Without Children in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-for-couples-without-children-in-texas/): If you and your spouse do not have children, it can be easy to assume your estate plan is less urgent. There are no guardians to name and no minor children to provide for, so the topic often gets pushed down the list.
- [Why estate planning in Texas Isn’t Just for the Wealthy: A San Antonio Guide](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-san-antonio-texas-guide/): When a family member dies suddenly, confusion rarely starts with grief alone. You may find yourself asking who owns the house, who controls the bank account, or how decisions get made.
- [How Trust Administration Works After a Loved One’s Death in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/how-trust-adminstration-works-after-death/): The days after a loved one’s death bring more than grief. Someone must step forward to manage financial accounts and follow the instructions left in a trust. For many Texas families, that responsibility falls to the trustee or successor trustee.
- [Can a Power of Attorney Change a Will in Texas?](https://haileypettylaw.com/can-a-power-of-attorney-change-a-will-in-texas/): There is a specific kind of anxiety that shows up when someone else starts making decisions for your family. Bills are paid, accounts are managed, documents are signed, and yet a quiet question sits underneath all of it. If someone is acting under a power of attorney, can those decisions change what happens after you are gone?
- [How to Set Up a Living Trust in Texas: What You Need to Know](https://haileypettylaw.com/how-to-set-up-a-living-trust-in-texas/): There is something comforting in knowing your family will have clear direction when you are gone. Many people want that peace, yet feel unsure about where to begin or worried that creating a trust will be too complicated. If you are sorting through these questions, you are not alone. Many Austin families start here, wondering how to protect their home, their savings, and the people who depend on them.
- [Can You Inherit Debt from Your Parents in Texas?](https://haileypettylaw.com/can-you-inherit-debt-from-your-parents/): You may be dealing with grief, paperwork, and unanswered questions at the same time. Then a letter from a creditor arrives with your parents’ name on it. Your first thought is simple and heavy: can you inherit debt from your parents? It feels like one more weight on your shoulders during an already stressful time.
- [Estate Planning for Singles in Austin: Why It Matters More Than You Think](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-for-singles-in-austin/): When you live independently and manage life on your own terms, it is easy to assume things will keep working the same way. Then one thought appears. What happens if something unexpected happens tomorrow? Who will speak for you if you cannot? Who will receive everything you have built? These questions do not show weakness. They show awareness.
- [Estate Planning Documents Checklist: The 7 Core Documents Every Adult Should Have](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-documents-checklist/): Estate planning becomes important the moment someone else may need to speak, decide, or act on your behalf. It often begins after a health scare, a family discussion, or the realization that life can change without warning. In these moments, uncertainty is not weakness. It is awareness that timing matters and legal clarity is needed.
- [Cohabiting Couples Estate Planning in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/cohabiting-couples-estate-planning-texas/): Unmarried partners in Texas share homes, raise children, build wealth together, then discover that Texas law does not treat them like spouses. Without written planning, a partner may have no say during a medical emergency, no access to shared money, and no right to inherit a home or accounts. This guide explains what cohabiting partners need to protect each other, from wills and powers of attorney to rights of survivorship and deed tools that pass real property outside probate. Texas has a one of a kind probate process and unique survivorship rules, so the choices you make now will determine who receives your assets later and who can speak for you if you are unable to. For a primer on how probate and survivorship work in Texas, see this overview on probate in Texas and rights of survivorship.
- [Texas Community Property Survivorship Agreement](https://haileypettylaw.com/texas-community-property-survivorship-agreement/): A Community Property Survivorship Agreement, often shortened to CPSA, gives married couples in Texas a clear way to pass community property to the surviving spouse without court probate. The agreement can cover real estate, financial accounts, and other community assets so title moves by contract on death. Texas Estates Code Chapter 112 authorizes these agreements and explains the formalities that make them valid. When spouses sign a CPSA that follows the statute, the survivor’s ownership of the covered property vests automatically upon the first spouse’s death, which keeps those assets out of the estate’s probate process. This guide explains how community property with right of survivorship Texas works, what the law requires, where frictions arise with title companies and banks, and how a CPSA compares to other probate avoidance tools.
- [Texas Mineral Rights Estate Planning Royalties](https://haileypettylaw.com/texas-mineral-rights-estate-planning-royalties/): Mineral rights and oil and gas royalties do not behave like typical accounts or a family home. Title chains, lease burdens, operator requirements, and recurring royalty income can create roadblocks during probate or when a beneficiary tries to claim payments. Thoughtful Texas mineral rights estate planning keeps those interests paying without interruption and allows your chosen beneficiaries to receive what you intend. If you own interests in Travis, Williamson, Bexar, Midland, or any producing counties, a tailored plan matters. Our Texas estate planning attorneys serve families in Austin and San Antonio with a clear, educational process that fits real world oil and gas assets.
- [Homestead Rights and Exempt Property Rules](https://haileypettylaw.com/homestead-rights-and-exempt-property-rules/): Texas homestead rights give homeowners powerful protections that can preserve a family residence during life and after death. They also intersect with probate shortcuts, creditor claims, and Medicaid eligibility. When you understand how Texas exempt property rules complement homestead protections, you can structure an estate plan that preserves equity, secures occupancy for a surviving spouse or children, and reduces exposure to claims that might otherwise erode a legacy. This guide explains how the rules work, common creditor exceptions, what property is considered exempt, how small estate procedures treat homestead property, and how to address Medicaid eligibility and recovery without risking penalties or avoidable delays.
- [Estate Planning Tips for Art Collections and Valuation](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-tips-for-art-collections-and-valuation/): Art collection estate planning rewards proactive owners. Protect your legacy with current documentation, accurate valuation, and the support of skilled professionals. This not only shields your family from tax surprises and legal disputes but also gives peace of mind for generations to come.
- [Estate Planning After Divorce in Texas Protecting Your Assets](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-after-divorce-in-texas-protecting-your-assets/): Is my ex-spouse automatically removed from my will after divorce in Texas?
- [Estate Planning for Texans with International Heirs](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-for-texans-with-international-heirs/): Texas residents with international heirs must consider more than state or federal law. Cross-border estate planning applies when assets, beneficiaries, or both, are located across different countries. International estates may face requirements under foreign law, in addition to Texas and United States rules, creating unique challenges.
- [Estate Planning Tips for Keeping Your Family Retreat](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-tips-for-keeping-your-family-retreat/): One of the strongest tools in vacation property estate transfer is the use of a trust. Placing the property in a revocable living trust allows the owner to retain full control during life. When the owner passes away, the trust document spells out exactly who inherits the property and how any income or use is divided. This avoids the public and often slow probate process.
- [Estate Planning for Texas Family-Owned Small Businesses](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-for-texas-family-owned-small-businesses/): Texas offers a thriving environment for small businesses, especially those run by families. For owners, a business is much more than an income source, it is a legacy. When it comes time to think about the future, incorporating your family-owned small business into your estate plan becomes critical. A solid plan prepares your business for new leadership, protects your wishes, and helps guard against legal threats. Below, we cover strategies tailored for Texas business estate planning, including succession planning and tax minimization methods. Gain insight to secure the hard work you have poured into your company for the benefit of future generations.
- [Protecting Inheritance from Addiction Risks](https://haileypettylaw.com/protecting-inheritance-from-addiction-risks/): Planning for the future of your loved ones can be a challenging process on its own. When a family member struggles with addiction, that challenge grows even more. Everyone wants their legacy to support, not unintentionally harm, the people who matter most. Careful estate planning offers options to protect inheritances while encouraging healthier outcomes. Thoughtful strategies create boundaries that guard financial assets from misuse. This article gives practical, law-based solutions for families seeking addiction inheritance protection. By understanding how these strategies work, you gain the ability to help your family member long term without enabling destructive behavior.
- [Vacation Home Inheritance Planning for Families](https://haileypettylaw.com/vacation-home-inheritance-planning-for-families/): Vacation homes frequently go beyond their monetary value. Family gatherings, summer holidays, and reunions imbue these places with sentimental meaning. These bonds often make second home inheritance more emotionally charged than other types of assets. Conversations about the future of the property might stir up feelings of nostalgia or even resentment if not handled thoughtfully. Many heirs worry about their connections to the house and what will happen when ownership changes. Recognizing the attachment family members hold can guide a more intentional planning process. Handling these feelings early on reduces the chances of bitter conflicts or disappointment after the owner’s passing.
- [Estate Planning for Foreign Property in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-for-foreign-property-in-texas/): Thoughtful estate planning for foreign property estate planning Texas residents and international beneficiaries in Texas wills eliminates risk, simplifies the probate process, and helps families safeguard their wealth for generations to come. In an era of cross-border assets and multinational families, skilled counsel is the best investment for peace of mind and protection for your heirs. For extra information or counsel about global estate matters, contact an experienced estate planning attorney at Hailey-Petty Law Firm.
- [Estate Planning for Non Citizens and Mixed Status Families Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-for-non-citizens-and-mixed-status-families-texas/): Estate planning for non-citizens and mixed-status families in Texas requires careful consideration to protect wealth and meet your wishes. Different citizenship and residency statuses impact how assets are passed on, who controls them, and how much tax will reduce their value. For non-citizens in Texas, a broad awareness of federal and state inheritance tax law, property law, and the special issues facing cross-border families is critical. Planning ahead allows families to avoid court disputes and surprises during a difficult time.
- [Estate Planning Tips for Estranged Family Members](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-tips-for-estranged-family-members/): Addressing estate planning with estranged relatives often brings a mix of emotion and legal concern. Deciding whether or not to disinherit a family member is rarely easy. The choices you make have lasting effects, both on your legacy and those you leave behind. Careful thought, open discussion, and clear documentation can help your wishes stand the test of time, even if family relationships are complicated or distant. This article goes into the practical and legal side of estate planning when you want to handle or disinherit estranged family members, providing insight on how to leave clear, effective instructions and reduce possible disputes.
- [Estate Planning Tips for Art Collection Inheritance](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-tips-for-art-collection-inheritance/): Art estate planning is best handled with the help of professionals. An experienced estate planning attorney familiar with art helps craft a plan that is both legal and tailored to your wishes. Art-specialist accountants manage the tax and reporting side. Insurance specialists help you keep protection up to date. Professional appraisers and art consultants provide market insights and updated records. This team approach eliminates blind spots and brings peace of mind. Inheritance and transfer of art involve technical legal points, emotional attachments, and public or media attention if the art is well known or valuable. Working with advisors avoids costly mistakes and preserves the collection’s value for years to come.
- [Texas Inheritance Rights for Stepchildren and Heirs](https://haileypettylaw.com/texas-inheritance-rights-for-stepchildren-and-heirs/): Modern families have changed over time. Many Texas families include stepchildren, non-biological children, and adopted children. This shift brings new questions about inheritance and passing on assets. Ignoring the changing structure of families can lead to legal conflict after death. When parents decide to provide for their loved ones, proper planning becomes more than a wish. It is a necessity. Texas law treats non-biological heirs differently than biological and adopted children. An understanding of these differences will secure your intentions and ease anxieties about future disputes. This article explains Texas inheritance rights for stepchildren and non-biological heirs, common estate planning challenges for blended families, and proven strategies to help your plan work as intended.
- [Divorce and Estate Planning in Texas Next Steps for Your Will](https://haileypettylaw.com/divorce-and-estate-planning-in-texas-next-steps-for-your-will/): Divorce brings new beginnings, but failing to update your estate plan can create confusion and unintended consequences. If you live in Texas, understanding how your divorce affects your legal documents is essential for protecting what matters most. Estate plans are more than a set of papers; they safeguard your wishes for your property, well-being, and loved ones. With life’s changes, especially something as significant as a marriage ending, your plan needs immediate attention to reflect your new circumstances. In this article, you will learn how divorce affects estate planning in Texas, which documents need the most attention, and practical steps to protect yourself.
- [Texas Multi State Estate Planning Tips for Property Owners](https://haileypettylaw.com/texas-multi-state-estate-planning-tips-for-property-owners/): Owning property in more than one state is an exciting accomplishment, but it comes with unique legal considerations. Many Texans hold vacation homes, investment properties, or inherited parcels in different states. Without careful estate planning, this mix of assets can lead to multiple legal proceedings, messy probate issues, higher taxes, and confusion for families. This guide looks at how Texans can approach multi-state estate planning, reduce stress for loved ones, cut unnecessary costs, and keep their property secure and protected for the next generation.
- [Elder Care Coordinators in Estate Planning](https://haileypettylaw.com/elder-care-coordinators-in-estate-planning/): Elder Care Coordination focuses on the integration of long term care planning into the traditional legal and financial approach of estate planning. Rather than solely managing who inherits assets or how trusts are structured, Elder Care Coordinators bring attention to the actual aging process of clients. These professionals work closely with families and attorneys to build a long term care plan that considers the person’s physical condition, preferences, likely future medical interventions, available community services, and housing options.
- [Preserving Cultural Heritage in Estate Planning](https://haileypettylaw.com/preserving-cultural-heritage-in-estate-planning/): One of the most effective methods to preserve identity within estate planning is a transparent and guided family conversation. These conversations help avoid disputes later and bring alignment around what matters most. A lawyer involved in cultural legacy estate planning may advise on how to host such a meeting or even facilitate it. With everyone present, decisions about which heir receives which cultural item can be clarified. Larger issues, such as how to continue ceremonies or family-owned property usage, can also be discussed.
- [Digital Wealth Transfer in the Cryptocurrency Era](https://haileypettylaw.com/digital-wealth-transfer-in-the-cryptocurrency-era/): Your private key is the single most important piece of digital wealth planning. Whoever controls the key, controls the asset. Losing it means losing everything attached to that wallet. Protecting it while also allowing future access by heirs is the central challenge behind cryptocurrency inheritance planning.
- [Digital Estate Planning for Digital Assets in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/digital-estate-planning-for-digital-assets-in-texas/): This means Texas residents must be intentional. Naming a digital executor and granting appropriate authority is essential if you want meaningful control over how your digital presence is handled after passing away. A regular executor might not have the knowledge or permissions necessary to deal with your digital accounts unless explicitly outlined in your estate documents.
- [Estate Planning Tips for Collectibles and Heirlooms](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-tips-for-collectibles-and-heirlooms/): The first step in collectibles estate planning is identifying the items to include. Many people underestimate the value or significance of what they own. A full inventory should be created, and not just for monetary evaluation. This can help reveal potential emotional attachments beneficiaries may have as well.
- [Preserving Heirlooms for Future Generations](https://haileypettylaw.com/preserving-heirlooms-for-future-generations/): An effective way to begin is by creating a "sentimental inventory." This involves identifying and cataloging items that may not have significant monetary value but carry deep emotional significance. This list can include jewelry, letters, furniture, photographs, recipes, or other keepsakes. Creating this inventory provides clarity about what matters most to you and highlights the items you want to be cherished or preserved.
- [How to Manage Global Assets](https://haileypettylaw.com/manage-global-assets/): Owning assets across multiple countries sounds like a smart diversification strategy. And it is. But it also comes with a long list of complications that domestic-only portfolios do not have. Tax laws are different. Reporting requirements vary. Estate planning gets harder. And if you are not organized, you can end up leaving your heirs with a massive headache.
- [Navigating the Ethical Considerations of Estate Planning](https://haileypettylaw.com/ethical-estate-planning/): Estate planning is often treated like a numbers game. Who gets what. How much tax can be avoided. What structures keep everything tidy. But underneath the spreadsheets and legal documents is a different layer that often gets ignored: the ethical side of planning. This is where things get less clear, more personal, and sometimes more difficult.
- [Empowering Heirs With Financial Literacy](https://haileypettylaw.com/heirs-financial-literacy/): Transferring wealth is only part of the equation. Passing on the tools to manage it is what makes the difference between a smooth inheritance and a financial mess. Many estate plans stop at the money. They focus on minimizing taxes, outlining distributions, and setting up the right vehicles. But without a plan for preparing the people receiving the wealth, things fall apart. That’s where financial literacy comes in. Teaching heirs how to handle what they’ll one day receive isn’t just a nice to have; it’s essential.
- [Utilizing Life Insurance for Strategic Estate Planning](https://haileypettylaw.com/life-insurance-estate-planning/): Life insurance often gets pigeonholed as something you buy just in case something happens. In reality, it can play a much more sophisticated role, especially when you're thinking about how to pass wealth efficiently, protect beneficiaries, and cover inevitable costs after death. Strategic estate planning using life insurance isn't just about leaving a payout. It's about using a tool with tax advantages, liquidity benefits, and long-term flexibility that few other financial instruments can match.
- [The Evolution of Estate Planning](https://haileypettylaw.com/evolution-estate-planning/): Estate planning is a practice deeply rooted in history, continuously adapting to societal shifts, technological advancements, and legislative changes. From ancient traditions to contemporary digital documentation, understanding how estate planning has evolved reveals its essential role in safeguarding assets, fulfilling personal wishes, and preserving family legacies. This article explores the fascinating transformation of estate planning throughout history, highlighting significant developments and illustrating how modern approaches differ vastly from traditional methods.
- [Estate Planning for Charitable Giving](https://haileypettylaw.com/estate-planning-charitable-giving/): Integrating charitable giving into estate planning is a thoughtful way to create a lasting legacy while benefiting causes you deeply care about. When done strategically, charitable contributions within an estate plan can significantly impact the community, provide financial benefits, and fulfill personal philanthropic goals. This article explores various methods of incorporating charitable giving into your estate plan, discusses the benefits, and outlines key considerations to ensure your generosity makes the most meaningful impact possible.
- [How Secure Should Your Estate Planning Be?](https://haileypettylaw.com/secure-estate-planning/): When crafting an estate plan, individuals typically focus on asset distribution, beneficiary selections, and reducing tax implications. However, one crucial element often overlooked is the overall security of the estate planning documents and processes themselves. In a digital age fraught with risks, securing your estate planning details goes far beyond merely locking away documents in a physical safe. This article explores the importance of securing estate planning information, practical strategies for enhancing security, and why comprehensive protection is vital.
- [Managing Online Assets After Death](https://haileypettylaw.com/online-assets-after-death/): The digital era has fundamentally reshaped how we plan for the future, especially regarding what we leave behind. Today, estate planning extends beyond traditional possessions like real estate, money, and family heirlooms. It now encompasses digital assets, such as online accounts, digital currencies, and virtual property. Ensuring proper management of these online assets after death is critical to protecting personal information, preserving valuable resources, and providing clarity and peace of mind to surviving family members.
- [An Explanation of Generation Skipping Trusts](https://haileypettylaw.com/generation-skipping-trusts/): Planning for the future of your family's wealth often involves considering unique strategies designed to benefit not just your immediate heirs but also future generations. One such method is known as the Generation Skipping Trust (GST). This article provides a clear and informative overview of what a Generation Skipping Trust entails, including how it functions, its key benefits, and important factors to consider before setting one up.
- [How Tariffs Are Effecting Estate Planning](https://haileypettylaw.com/tariffs-effecting-estate-planning/): Tariffs on imported goods have introduced new complexities for estate planners, particularly when valuing business assets and structuring wealth transfers. In recent years, U.S. tariff policies, from steel and aluminum duties to broad trade-war measures, have created significant uncertainty in markets. This volatility has affected the fair market value of businesses and assets, complicating estate planning for owners involved in international trade. As an expert estate planning attorney, I will analyze how tariffs are impacting asset valuation and estate transfer strategies. We’ll explore the effects on business owners reliant on global supply chains, discuss recent tax law changes intersecting with these issues, and outline strategies to mitigate tariff-induced challenges. The goal is to provide a detailed, analytical perspective for an audience already familiar with estate planning and financial structuring.
- [How a Lady Bird Deed Helps Avoid Probate in Texas](https://haileypettylaw.com/how-a-lady-bird-deed-helps-avoid-probate-texas/): Fortunately, Texas offers an effective solution: the Lady Bird Deed. This powerful estate planning tool helps Texans avoid probate, retain control over their property, and protect their heirs’ inheritance—all while providing flexibility that traditional estate planning methods may lack.

## Pages
- [OCTOBER – Free Interactive Guide](https://haileypettylaw.com/legacy-or-horror/): Identify the 7 most common estate planning mistakes that could leave your family facing unnecessary legal challenges and probate.
- [Don’t Let Your Legacy Become a Horror Story](https://haileypettylaw.com/free-guide/): Simple prompts that help you outline what truly matters to you—your goals, priorities, and who you want to protect.
- [Do You Have Assets?](https://haileypettylaw.com/assets-avoid-probate/): Which assets typically go through probate—and which may avoid it under Texas law.
- [Mariana Chong](https://haileypettylaw.com/firm/mariana-chong/): Mariana is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Graphic Design at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Originally from Tamaulipas, Mexico, she moved to the United States in 2019 and has continued to build her academic and professional career while developing a strong passion for client service and communication.
- [Video Gallery](https://haileypettylaw.com/video-gallery/): Estate Planning and Probate Video Gallery
- [Want to Avoid Probate?](https://haileypettylaw.com/avoid-probate/): Texas probate is the legal process of settling a person’s estate after death, which can involve court oversight, time delays, and additional costs for families.
- [Travis Riedel](https://haileypettylaw.com/firm/travis-riedel/): As a dedicated Client Engagement Coordinator, Travis plays a vital role in onboarding new clients and ensuring their initial consultations are productive and organized. With a meticulous eye for detail and strong communication skills, Travis helps prospective clients understand our firm’s processes while gathering essential information to ensure a smooth transition to our legal team. Travis is committed to providing prompt, professional service that builds confidence in our firm’s ability to handle complex legal matters.
- [PM | Trust Funding Guide – Free e-Book](https://haileypettylaw.com/pm-trust-funding-guide-free-e-book/): What is Trust Funding?
- [Erin Maness](https://haileypettylaw.com/firm/erin-maness/): Erin Maness serves as a Legal Assistant with the firm. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia and her master’s degree from the University of South Alabama, both in education, and is currently pursuing an Advanced Technical Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Austin Community College to further expand her legal knowledge and expertise.
- [Christina Barbour](https://haileypettylaw.com/firm/christina-barbour/): Christina Barbour serves as a paralegal with the firm, focusing on probate, guardianship, and estate planning. She brings a strong academic foundation to her role, having earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Public Administration from Texas State University.
- [New To Texas?](https://haileypettylaw.com/new-to-tx-guide/): Don't Forget to Take Our Quiz After you Download to See What Plan Best Fits Your Life
- [Sonya Romero](https://haileypettylaw.com/attorney-sonya-romero/): Sonya is originally from Española, New Mexico, known as the lowrider capital of the world. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from The University of New Mexico and relocated to Austin, Texas in 2010. Sonya brings over a decade of experience in the marketing industry and recently reentered the workforce after spending the past four years as a stay-at-home mother.
- [Attorney Jonathan Long](https://haileypettylaw.com/firm/attorney-jonathan-long/): Jonathan is a licensed attorney in the states of Texas and Washington. He has a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from the University of Phoenix, a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Mitchell Hamline School of Law, and a Master of Laws (LL. M.) in Human Rights Law & Policy from the University of New South Wales Faculty of Law & Justice.
- [PM | End Of Life Planner Workbook Download](https://haileypettylaw.com/pm-end-of-life-planner-workbook-download/): Prepare today so your family isn’t left searching tomorrow
- [Estate Planning in Bouldin Creek, TX](https://haileypettylaw.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/bouldin-creek-tx/): You want a plan that is clear, current, and easy to follow when your family needs it. Hailey-Petty Law Firm, PLLC helps you choose the right path, explains the trade-offs, and gets it signed the right way. Our Austin estate planning attorneys are based in North Austin, up MoPac. Consultations are in person, and once you have retained us, most appointments can be handled by video.
- [PM | Will vs. Trust Checklist](https://haileypettylaw.com/will-vs-trust-checklist/): The real differences between a Texas will and a revocable living trust: probate, privacy, timelines, and long-term cost, so you can choose confidently.
- [Estate Planning in Schertz, TX](https://haileypettylaw.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/schertz-tx/): From wills and living trusts to probate guidance, Hailey-Petty Law Firm helps Schertz and San Antonio families protect what matters most.
- [Estate Planning in North Austin](https://haileypettylaw.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/north-austin/): Protect your legacy with wills, trusts, and probate solutions crafted for North Austin families and business owners.
- [Estate Planning in Cedar Park](https://haileypettylaw.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/cedar-park/): It depends on what you own, who should receive it, and how much you want to keep out of probate. A Cedar Park estate planning attorney can lay out both paths in one meeting, and many families end up using each for a different job.
- [Estate Planning in Pflugerville, TX](https://haileypettylaw.com/practice-areas/estate-planning/pflugerville-tx/): Safeguard your family’s future with wills, trusts, and probate strategies designed for Pflugerville and Central Texas residents.
- [Jim Spillane](https://haileypettylaw.com/firm/jim-spillane/): Meet Jim Spillane. Known as a tireless crusader for doing what’s right by anyone he’s ever worked with or has been his client; he is a highly seasoned sales professional who incessantly puts people first. With strong principles centered around integrity, a servant heart, and a passion to make a difference, Jim brings over 25 years of experience to the Hailey-Petty Law Firm.
- [PM | Special Needs Planning Guide](https://haileypettylaw.com/special-needs-planning-guide/): What is Special Needs Planning?
- [PM | Estate Planning e-Book for the Sandwich Generation](https://haileypettylaw.com/pm-estate-planning-sandwich-generation/): Special estate planning considerations for the “Sandwich Generation”
- [PM | Probate Checklist](https://haileypettylaw.com/pm-probate-checklist/): A list of immediate actions that should be taken upon the death of a loved one
- [What If I Die Without A Will in Texas?](https://haileypettylaw.com/what-if-i-die-without-a-will-video/): https://youtu.be/ZpS3MBmpu84

## Quizzes & Surveys