Losing a trust document can be a stressful and frustrating experience. Trust documents are legal instruments that govern the distribution of assets and property, and losing them can complicate the administration of a trust. However, there are steps you can take if you lose your trust document. The first step is to contact the attorney […]
GP Schoemakers Blog
Can You Sell Property After Probate?
Probate is the legal process by which a deceased person’s assets are distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries. Once the probate process is complete, the assets become the property of the beneficiaries, and they can do with them as they please, including selling them. In general, you can sell property after probate administration is started. […]
5 Reason Why a Trust Might Be a Good Idea
A trust is a legal arrangement in which one person, the trustee, holds property for the benefit of another person, the beneficiary. Trusts can be powerful estate planning tools that offer a wide range of benefits for individuals and families. Here are some reasons why you may need a trust: Overall, trusts can be powerful […]
What Is Accidental Disinheritance?
Accidental disinheritance can occur when a person unintentionally fails to leave assets to a loved one in their estate plan. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as overlooking a beneficiary, failing to update a will after a life-changing event, or misunderstanding the legal requirements for passing on property. Accidental disinheritance can have […]
Probate Nightmares
Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s assets are distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries. In Texas, probate can be a complex and time-consuming process, particularly if the deceased person did not have a comprehensive estate plan in place. In some cases, probate can turn into a nightmare for the deceased person’s […]
How To Prevent Will Contests With A “No Contest” Clause
A will contest is a legal challenge to the validity of a will. In some cases, a disgruntled beneficiary may challenge a will in an attempt to receive a larger share of the estate or to overturn the wishes of the deceased. One way to prevent will contests is to include a “no contest” clause […]
Updating Your Revocable Trust: How Many “Tweaks” Are Too Many?
If your life or the law has changed since you signed your trust, it needs to be updated. Updates can be made by way of an amendment – or – a complete restatement. An amendment updates a specific part of the trust, whereas, a restatement, updates the entire trust. You might think that an amendment […]
Three Tips For Protecting Your Important Legal Paperwork in a Natural Disaster
The last few years have been no stranger to natural disasters. From multiple earthquakes, back-to-back hurricanes, and raging wildfires, the United States and abroad has suffered some serious natural disasters. These acts of nature can devastate your life and your family. Who knows what 2023 will bring. In addition to creating a disaster preparedness plan […]