The Insights section of our website is your trusted resource for information on wills, probate, and estate planning in Abilene and across Texas.
Here, you’ll find articles covering everything from recent updates in Texas probate law to practical guidance on creating a will, avoiding common estate planning mistakes, navigating the probate process with confidence, and more.
Whether you’re planning ahead to protect your family’s future or handling the legal steps after the loss of a loved one, our blog provides valuable insights to help you make informed, thoughtful decisions.
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So, When Is It Too Late to Get a Power of Attorney for Your Parents?
Is it Too Late to Get a Power of Attorney? Many Abilene families don’t think about a power of attorney until a crisis happens – a hospitalization, a dementia diagnosis, or a sudden decline in memory. By that point, time may already be working against you. Here’s the reality: it becomes too late to create…
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What Does Estate Planning Cost?
Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family, your wishes, and the legacy you’ve worked hard to build. But one of the most common questions people ask when starting the process is, “What does estate planning cost?” While most people want a straightforward dollar amount, the truth…
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Estate Planner vs. Estate Attorney: What’s the Difference in Texas?
When you decide to plan for your family’s future, you will encounter various professional titles. Two of the most common are “estate planner” and “estate attorney.” While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they represent distinct roles with different qualifications and capabilities. Understanding the difference is crucial for ensuring your assets are protected and your…
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What Is a Cloudy Title?
What Is a Cloudy Title in Texas? When you buy a piece of real estate, you expect to receive a clear title. This document proves you are the rightful owner and have the legal right to sell or transfer the property. But what happens when the title isn’t clear? In the world of Texas real…
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What is the Biggest Mistake With Wills?
The Biggest Mistake with Wills (And How to Avoid It) Many people understand the importance of having a will. It’s a foundational piece of estate planning that directs how your assets are distributed after you pass away. Yet, a surprising number of individuals make a critical error that can undermine their intentions. So, what is…
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What is The Difference Between a Will and an Estate Plan?
Many people use the terms “will” and “estate plan” interchangeably. While they are related, they are not the same thing. Understanding the distinction is the first step toward protecting your assets and providing for your loved ones after you’re gone. A will is a single, important document, but a comprehensive estate plan offers much more…
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What Happens If You Die In Texas Without Naming a Guardian for Minor Children?
Planning Ahead Will Make A Difference In Their Lives If you have minor children, you know how important it is to plan and prepare. One difficult part of parenting that many parents find tough is thinking through what happens to your children if something ever happens to you. If you were to die or become…
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How Will My Assets Be Distributed Under Texas Law If I Don’t Create a Will or Trust?
What Happens to Your Assets in Texas Without a Will? Many people put off creating a will. It can feel like a complex task, or perhaps something to worry about far in the future. But what happens if you pass away in Texas without one? The state doesn’t get to keep your property, but you…
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Estate Planning for Families After the New 2025 Tax Law
Many people hear “estate planning” and think of sprawling mansions and massive fortunes. But creating a plan for your assets is important for everyone, especially for middle-class families. With the new “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” signed into law on July 4, 2025, the landscape of estate planning has changed for the better. This law…
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What is the Difference Between a Will and a Last Will and Testament?
You’re planning your estate and keep seeing two terms pop up everywhere: “will” and “last will and testament.” Are these different documents? Do you need both? The confusion is understandable, and you’re not alone in wondering about this distinction. The simple answer might surprise you: there’s no legal difference between a “will” and a “last…
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The Bizarre Case of Tony Hsieh’s Lost Will – and Why You Can’t Afford the Same Mistakes
The Bizarre Case of Tony Hsieh’s “Lost” Will – and Why You Can’t Afford the Same Mistakes When former Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh (pronounced SHAY) tragically died in 2020 without any publicly known will, his estate appeared to default into intestacy. Then, four years later, a 2015 will surfaced – under mysterious circumstances. The document…
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Why Does Michael Palin’s Story Remind Us That a Will Matters – For Everyone?
When Sir Michael Palin, the beloved 82-year-old Monty Python legend, shared that he has already finalized his will and made sure his children know where to find all critical documents – including account passwords – it hit home for many of us. Even someone as public, private, and thoughtful as Palin isn’t immune to life’s…