Work With A Pearland Wills Attorney To Protect Your Wishes
Last updated on August 14, 2024
If you should pass away tomorrow, are you confident that your wishes will be carried out? If not, it’s time to consider creating a will. Wills are the cornerstone of a comprehensive estate plan and can safeguard your wishes and preserve your property for your heirs.
Our wills attorneys at the Law Office of Carrie Kemper Allen, PLLC, provide one-on-one attention to our clients in Pearland and south Houston communities. Founded by estate planning attorney Carrie Kemper Allen who has been practicing law since 2003, our legal team is dedicated to providing customized legal services to create comprehensive estate plans.
Why Do You Need A Will?
A will is a crucial part of your estate plan because it sets forth in a clear manner how you want your assets distributed after you pass away. Without a will, Texas state law will determine how your estate will be divided, which may not align with what you want. A will also allows you to:
- Name guardians for your minor children
- Designate an executor to manage your estate
- Specify who should receive your property and assets
Having a will can also help reduce potential conflicts among your loved ones by providing clear instructions on your wishes. This can make the process smoother and less stressful for your family during a difficult time. An attorney can help you draft a comprehensive will that addresses all your concerns and ensures your wishes are carried out. By taking this step, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are protected and your estate will be handled according to your intentions.
Do You Need A Lawyer To Create A Will?
While it’s not legally required to have a lawyer draft your will, working with an attorney can provide significant benefits. A lawyer can:
- Help ensure that your will is legally valid
- It accurately reflects your wishes
- Provide guidance on complex issues like tax implications
- Suggest the best way to structure your estate to avoid potential legal challenges
Creating a will involves more than just listing who gets what. Drafting a will requires careful consideration of various legal and financial factors. An experienced attorney can help you navigate these complexities, ensuring that your will is thorough and legally sound.
By consulting with an estate planning lawyer, you can avoid common pitfalls and make sure that your will holds up against any challenges that might arise after your passing. A lawyer can also help you utilize other estate planning tools, like trusts, to ensure that you are passing your assets and wealth onto your heirs in the most efficient and cost-effective ways.
What Are The Legal Requirements To Make Sure A Will Is Valid In Texas?
To ensure that your will is valid in Texas, you must meet several legal requirements. After a decedent dies, the probate court will evaluate your will to make sure that it is legally valid. Texas laws require:
- The person creating the will must be at least 18 years old, legally married or a member of the armed forces
- The person creating the will is of “sound mind,” meaning that they understand the nature of their actions and the extent of their own assets
- A will must be in writing and signed by the person whose will it is or by another person at their direction and in the presence of the person whose will it is
- There must also be at least two credible witnesses who are at least 14 years old and not beneficiaries, so as to avoid a potential conflict of interest
- The witnesses must sign the will in the presence of the person whose will it is
Consulting with a lawyer can help ensure that you meet all of the legal requirements for a valid will. An experienced wills and trusts attorney can guide you through the process, making sure that all of the necessary steps are taken to create a valid will.
Schedule A Consultation With A Pearland Wills Lawyer
We know that you rely on our advice to safeguard your assets and property against unforeseen circumstances – and that’s a job we take very seriously. For more than 16 years, the Law Office of Carrie Kemper Allen, PLLC, has made it its mission to make it easier for families seeking legal representation in Harris, Galveston and Brazoria counties.
To schedule an initial consultation and learn more about creating a comprehensive estate plan, send a message through our website or call 713-804-5889. We look forward to telling you more about how a will can protect your wishes.