The Perry Law Firm, LLP
We can help you plan for your family's future.
Why should I have a will?
When I talk to people, I always get on my “will” soapbox. I’ve heard too many times the same statement, “I know I need to write my will, I just don’t have time.” The fact of the matter is, the majority of Texans don’t have a will when they need one. As a result, not only do difficulties arise if they become completely disabled and unable to make health care decision for themselves but, should they pass away, settling their estate presents a number of difficulties. If they do not have a will, during probate creditors and anyone else can petition the court to assume the trusteeship of their estate, leaving loved ones with no other option but to enter into litigation to gain control of the estate.
Protect your family's future and avoid problems during probate - contact wills and trusts attorneys at the Perry Law Firm today.
Fort Worth Will Attorney
(817) 877-3933
So what if I don’t have a will?
For one thing, The State of Texas will dictate who gets what out of your estate. A judge will dictate who will raise your children. The whole process will cost your family way more than it should in probating your estate. If you die with assets and no will, then your estate must be controlled by the probate court. That means almost every expense, every distribution, every decision must first be approved by the probate court.
Also, you have to have a hearing to prove to the court that the decedent didn’t have any other heirs. An attorney ad litem must be appointed by the court to represent the unknown heirs. The lawyer ad litem’s fees are paid by the estate. The court will hold a hearing with witnesses testifying that the decedent had no other heirs than the persons listed with the court. The attorney ad litem will also have to report to the court that he/she looked and could not find any other heirs. This is a long and costly procedure, especially if everyone knows there were no other heirs.
The easier way is with a will and probate. Texas probate is very cost efficient. It’s not a long and costly procedure.
What is the purpose of an estate plan?
An estate plan typically involves a will and/or trust and is a means of setting out exactly what you want to have happen when you pass away and how you want it to happen. Many people avoid estate planning because they don’t want to think about death. But, especially if you have minor children, it’s important to take a moment of your time and make these plans. Do you really want a court deciding who will raise your children? Do you really want a court to decide where your assets go when you pass away? With an estate plan, you are in control of your end of life plans and you make those decisions.
Who needs an estate plan?
Anyone who has any type of assets such as a house or real estate. Anyone who wants specific things to go to specifically named persons. Anyone who has minor children.
Contact us today for all of your legal needs in planning for your family's future.
