The loss of a loved one is always a traumatic experience.
The Law Office of Richard H. Hughes is experienced in providing the best service and support for all your Probate needs.
As your probate lawyer in Tyler, Texas, Richard H. Hughes, can provide compassionate legal representation to assist and advise individuals of their legal rights.
Probate does not have to be difficult or expensive. Whether you need a will, power of attorney or guardianship, we can certainly help. Give us a call today to find out how The Law Office of Richard H. Hughes can help you in this area.
Please don’t sign a power of attorney without legal help. We’ll protect your rights.
Leaving the legacy you want begins with planning your estate. Contact us today.
If you need help with any legal matters whatsoever, we are here for you.
If you’re looking for a wills and probate attorney in your area, contact Mr. Hughes today to schedule your consultation. We are more than happy to help.
An estate plan is made up of legal documents that outline how you want to distribute your assets when you pass.
By making an estate plan, you can decide in advance how you want your medical and financial affairs taken care of before you die.
This can be a huge relief to your loved ones since it helps them honor your wishes, avoid family disputes, and keep your estate out of a lengthy probate process.
Estate plans typically include the following documents:
A living will (also called an advance directive) states your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment if you become terminally ill or permanently unconscious. This document guides doctors and relieves your loved ones from making painful decisions on your behalf.
If you die without a will in Texas, it is considered “interstate,” meaning Texas law decides who receives your property.
Typically, your assets go to your closest relatives first, such as your spouse, children, parents, or siblings.
However, this process may not follow your personal wishes for how you want your property distributed and may lead to a lengthy, expensive probate process.
It’s recommended to update your estate plan every 3-5 years or after a major life event such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or gaining significant assets.
This timeline is recommended so that your estate plan reflects your current wishes for how you want your estate distributed. It can also help beneficiaries access their benefits more smoothly.
Texas does not have a state estate or inheritance tax. However, very large estates may be subject to federal estate taxes if they exceed the federal exemption. Strategies like creating trusts, making lifetime gifts, and using charitable donations can help reduce or avoid federal estate taxes if your estate is large enough to qualify.
Estate planning is crucial for protecting your loved ones, ensuring your property is distributed according to your wishes, and preventing unnecessary legal costs or disputes.
Even if you don’t own significant assets, having powers of attorney and healthcare directives in place is essential to avoid court intervention if you become incapacitated and can provide much-needed relief to loved ones during a difficult time.
While Texas law allows you to write a will or other documents on your own, hiring an experienced estate planning attorney helps ensure everything is done correctly. A lawyer can draft legally valid documents, address complex family or financial situations, and reduce the risk of disputes or errors that could lead to costly probate litigation.