I do simple wills, living wills, and medical powers of attorney. A simple will is one with no trusts or complicated disposition of property. Usually everything is left to the spouse or to the children. If your estate runs into the millions, I urge you to find an estate specialist to eliminate or reduce any tax bite. A lawyer who concentrates on wills is more likely to be up-to-date on the ever-changing tax laws that are important in large estates. A Living Will (Directive to Physicians) is made while you are competent. It instructs your doctors that should you have an incurable, terminal condition, and you are only being kept alive by machines or feeding tubes, you want the life-sustaining procedures to be withdrawn so you can die naturally. A Medical Power of Attorney allows you to name someone to make medical decisions for you should you be unable to make them for yourself and covers terminal as well as non-terminal medical issues. The following topics are designed to answer some basic questions under Texas law regarding wills and probate. Please call if you have specific questions.
How Long After Filing A Will for Probate Does One Have to Wait for a Hearing?
Some Steps in Probate Where There is a Valid Will
What Happens If Someone Dies Without a Will
Determining the Unknown Heirs Under Texas Law