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Can Someone Else Give a Gift Causa Mortis?

Introduction When it comes to giving gifts, we usually think of happy occasions like birthdays and Christmas. But what about when someone is nearing the end of their life? In Texas, there is a provision for what’s known as a Causa Mortis gift. This allows a person to give away property or possessions that they […]

will validity

Does Past Misconduct Against an Estate Suggest Undue Influence in a Will Contest?

In Texas, probate court is the venue in which family members, friends, and business associates can contest a will. The Texas Estates Code sets out rules for how the court should handle these disputes. You might be wondering, if evidence of past misconduct toward an estate can be admitted as evidence to prove undue influence. […]

Can You Establish Testamentary Capacity with a Self-Proved Will?

Introduction: Making a Valid Last Will and Testament For your will to be valid in Texas, you must have testamentary capacity. Testamentary capacity means that you understand the nature and extent of your property and that you’re aware of the natural objects of your affection. You must also be able to understand that you’re making […]

Information to Locate If a Loved One Dies

Introduction If you have lost a loved one in Texas, there are a few things you will need to do in order to get their affairs in order. This includes locating important documents, notifying the appropriate people and agencies, and making funeral arrangements. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through this difficult time. […]

5 Ways of Administering an Estate in Texas

Probating an Estate with or without a Will After a person dies, their estate must be managed according to the laws of the state in which they resided. This process is called estate administration, and it can be complex and overwhelming, especially if you are already grieving the loss of a loved one. This article […]

When Can Probate Be Disputed in Texas?

Introduction: When Can Probate Be Disputed in Texas? Probate is the legal process of transferring a person’s property and assets after they die. If you are named in a will as an executor, it is your responsibility to see that the probate process goes smoothly. However, there are certain situations in which probate can be […]

Why Avoiding Probate Isn’t Always a Good Idea

Even with the simplified probate process in Texas, probate can still be a long, complicated process for some that can be enormously frustrating for loved ones who are trying to manage a deceased person’s estate. While avoiding probate may be the best option in some cases, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before […]

What to Do If You Have Been Disinherited

While it is not a pleasant topic to think about, disinheritance – being cut out of a will – is a reality that many people face. If you have been disinherited, it is important to understand your legal rights and options. You might have questions such as What are the grounds for disinheritance in Texas? […]

Small Estate Affidavit: An Alternative to Probate

The small estate affidavit is one of the alternatives to a full probate administration in Texas. It can provide a streamlined and inexpensive method for probating an estate. When is the Small Estate Affidavit Used? As its name implies, it is used for smaller estates with few assets. It is typically used for estates consisting […]