One size fits all planning fails the families who need it most. Blended families, LGBTQ families, families facing mental illness or Alzheimer’s, and families passing on a ranch or legacy property all need a plan built around the people in it. That is the planning we do.
What makes a family unique for planning purposes?
Each family is unique.
Estate planning cannot be done as a “one size” fits all or online and hope that the planning serves your needs and protects your family. The world changes and people change. However, some families face greater challenges than others. Some families are more complex and unique than others. Mental and emotional illnesses, special needs, “Brady bunch” blended families with his, mine, and our children and responsibilities, LGBTQ families, multi-spouse families, adult children who boomerang, transitioning and gender identity changes and issues, lost children, Alzheimer’s and other debilitating conditions, all create unique planning challenges that require experience, empathy, and understanding in order to plan for them or around them.
We also help families who need assistance passing on “legacy” property (ex., the family ranch) or wealth through to the following generations.
With several attorneys who have over 40 years of experience each and board certification in Estate Planning and Probate Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, we can help you plan for your or your family’s uniqueness.
Common questions
How does Texas community property law affect a second marriage?
Property either spouse earns during the marriage is generally community property, and each spouse controls only their half at death, while property owned before the marriage stays separate. In Texas, income earned on separate property during the marriage is usually community property, which surprises many couples in a second marriage.
Can I leave a ranch to some children and not others?
Yes. Texas lets you leave property to whomever you choose, and many families leave the ranch to the children who work it and balance the others with life insurance or other assets. Holding the ranch in an LLC or partnership can also keep it together and make the transition easier.
What is a marital agreement and do we need one?
A marital agreement is a written contract, signed before or during the marriage, that decides which property is separate and which is community. It is worth considering if you own a business, have children from a prior relationship, or are bringing significant assets into the marriage.
Want to read more? Browse our articles on estate planning
