Estate Planning Basics

Is Real Property Purchased with an Inheritance during Marriage Separate or Community Property?

October 3, 2012

Texas is a community property state. Property is classified as community or separate property depending on when and how it was acquired. In Texas, all property acquired during marriage is presumed to be community. Property acquired before a marriage and during the marriage by gift, devise or descent is characterized as separate property. Property retains [...]

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Where Are Your Important Documents?

September 26, 2012

I got a call yesterday from a woman, who I’ll call Sue, whose mother suffered a stroke. Sue’s mom was only 67 years old. The stroke left her completely incapacitated, unable to talk, write or care for herself. Sue’s mom had executed a power of attorney, giving Sue the authority to handle her financial affairs [...]

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Who Is The Beneficiary Of Your Insurance Policy?

April 25, 2012

I got a heartbreaking call from young woman recently that highlights the importance of updating ones’ insurance beneficiary designations after major life events. She and her husband had gotten married about two years ago, and were the parents of a toddler. Her husband was healthy, a soldier who recently completed a tour of duty in [...]

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Should I Deed My Home To My Kids Before I Die?

March 5, 2012

Not too long ago someone called me wondering if he really needed a will. He explained that his mother had transferred her home to him many years before she died. When she died, probate wasn’t necessary.  “Is there a reason why I shouldn’t do that?” he asked. Our conversation brought to mind a story I [...]

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True Love Plans: Valentine Recommendations For My Clients

February 14, 2012

The part of my job that I enjoy most is the conferences I have with my clients. I love hearing about their loved ones, and their hopes and dreams for them. I always come away with a glimpse of my clients’ deep love for their families. It’s a beautiful thing! Overwhelmingly, it is that love [...]

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Estate Planning Tips That Prevent Family Feuds

November 2, 2011

When I was a girl, my mother enjoyed needlework. She would painstakingly sew for hours, crafting beautiful pieces like the one in the image above. My husband thinks that piece of needlepoint is a bit old fashioned, but I love it. For years it hung in the living room of my parents’ house, welcoming me [...]

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