Wills | Trusts | Estate Planning | Probate | Guardianship
Thoughtful
Estate Planning
= Peace of Mind
Protecting Grapevine Families Through Expert Will Planning
Creating a will isn't just about distributing assets – it's about protecting the people you love and ensuring your wishes are honored. As your neighbors in the Grapevine community, our experienced will attorneys understand the unique needs of local families and can help you create a comprehensive plan that protects your legacy.
Handling Wills for Families Just Like Yours
Every family's story is unique – whether you're just starting to build your future with a growing family, or you're an established professional planning your legacy.
With years of estate planning experience and hundreds of satisfied clients, our firm has the expertise to transform your wishes into legally sound documents that stand the test of time.
We take pride in our meticulous attention to detail, our commitment to understanding each family's unique dynamics, and our ability to foresee and prevent potential future complications that could put your legacy at risk.
“Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s for everyone, everyone who wants to protect their family and prepare for the future".”
Consequences of Dying Without A Will in Texas
In Texas, dying without a will (known as dying "intestate") can have serious consequences for your family. Your assets will be distributed according to Texas state law, not your wishes, which could leave your spouse with only a portion of your estate and create complicated co-ownership situations with your children.
The probate process becomes more complex, time-consuming, and expensive without a will. Additionally, you lose the opportunity to name guardians for minor children, potentially leaving their future care up to a court decision.
Practice Areas: Wills
Simple Wills
Perfect for individuals or couples with straightforward estates, our simple wills ensure your basic wishes are legally documented and enforceable.
Complex Wills
For those with substantial assets, business interests, or complicated family situations, we create detailed wills that address every aspect of your estate.
Living Wills
Also known as advance directives, these documents specify your medical care preferences if you become incapacitated.
Pour-over Wills
These specialized wills work in conjunction with your trust, ensuring any assets not already in your trust are transferred there upon your death.
“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”
Warren Buffet
Texas Will Requirements
In Texas, creating a valid will requires specific elements that must be carefully followed. The will must be in writing and signed by you (the testator) in front of two credible witnesses who are at least 14 years old.
While Texas doesn't require a will to be notarized, adding a self-proving affidavit can simplify the probate process. As your local Grapevine attorneys, we ensure your will meets all Texas legal requirements while reflecting your specific wishes and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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A valid Texas will must be in writing, signed by you (the testator), and witnessed by two credible witnesses over age 14. While notarization isn't required, adding a self-proving affidavit (which does require notarization) can simplify the probate process for your loved ones.
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Review your will every 3-5 years and after major life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, significant changes in assets, moving to a new state, or changes in tax laws. Regular reviews ensure your will continues to reflect your wishes and current circumstances.
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We help minimize the risk of contests by ensuring proper execution, documenting your capacity, communicating clearly with family members, and including specific provisions that address potential challenges. Including a no-contest clause and clearly explaining your decisions can also discourage contests.