Studies[1] have shown that the largest contributing factors to generational loss of wealth are a lack of communication and trust among family members and the failure to prepare heirs.[2] Often, fear is what underlies the lack of communication and trust that inevitably leads to unprepared heirs. The following are some of the fears that prevent people […]
In today’s digital age, many people have a library of digital assets that may include items such as books, music, and movies. One of the perceived benefits of owning these digital items is having a convenient way to access your favorite media indefinitely with only few mouse clicks. However, is it as simple as it seems? […]
Starting a new job is an exciting new chapter in your life. Depending on the employee onboarding process, there can be a lot of moving parts. You may feel overwhelmed by the introduction and review of the many different types of employee benefits. Not only are there forms to be filled out, they need to be […]
We each have causes which move us deeply, and call us to action. Through gifts of time and resources, we each support these well loved charities during our lifetimes. Charitable giving is a great way to give back to those causes. Yet, it is important that you also take care of your affairs. A financial and […]
Asking someone to serve as your fiduciary (trustee of your trust or personal representative or executor under your last will and testament) is not something you should do lightly. Serving as a fiduciary is a heavy responsibility that requires significant time and effort. If you plan to nominate a family member or friend to serve in […]
Clients often naturally choose their children to be beneficiaries of their revocable living trusts. Many clients also wish to name one or more of their children as the trustee of that trust, but are not sure if that is allowed by the law. The short answer is yes, you can have a trustee who is also […]
In the world of estate planning, terms that refer to legal documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives can be confusing and even overwhelming at times. What is a will, and how does it differ from a trust? What distinguishes a springing power of attorney from an immediate power of attorney? Or […]
An estate plan that includes a revocable living trust is an excellent way to protect yourself and your loved ones upon your passing or in the event you are unable to manage your own affairs. As opposed to other estate planning options, a revocable living trust gives you the ability to keep control of and enjoy […]
The chances of a married couple dying simultaneously in a common accident or within a very short time of one another are probably quite slim. However, it does sadly happen. And it happens frequently enough that most states have laws to address the issue and the problems that can arise from simultaneous deaths. What are these […]
Marriage as a legal institution has taken a variety of forms throughout history. As society evolves, how we identify marriage in our society also changes. While not lawful everywhere, in Texas a couple may be deemed married without having participated in judicial or religious ceremonies. These marriages are called common law marriages. Their existence creates some […]
