Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need an estate plan if I'm young and healthy?
Yes. Estate planning is not just about age — it's about responsibility. If you have children, own a home, or want someone you trust to make medical or financial decisions for you, an estate plan ensures your wishes are clear and legally enforceable under Texas law.
What happens if I die without a Will in Texas?
If you pass away without a Will, Texas intestacy laws determine who receives your property. That may not reflect your actual wishes, and it can create unnecessary stress, delays, and expenses for your family. Most importantly for parents, the court — not you — will decide who manages assets for your minor children.
Who should I choose as my executor or agent for my will?
Choose someone responsible, trustworthy, and organized. This person does not need to be a financial expert, but they should be capable of following instructions and handling paperwork. Many clients choose a spouse, close family member, or trusted friend.
What qualifies someone to be a witness?
Witnesses must be at least 16 years old and "disinterested," meaning they are not beneficiaries under your Will. This protects the validity of your estate plan and prevents future challenges.
How long does the process take?
Most estate plans are completed within a few weeks, depending on complexity and how quickly information is provided. The signing appointment typically takes 30–60 minutes.
What if I change my mind?
All fees are refundable if a written cancellation request is submitted within three (3) days of payment. Any refund may be reduced to account for attorney's fees or costs incurred for services already performed on your behalf. After the three-day window, fees are non-refundable. See our Terms & Conditions for full details.
What happens if I lose my documents?
If you lose your original documents, contact our office right away. We maintain copies of the documents we prepare and can provide replacements. However, for certain documents — especially a Will — having the original is important. If the original cannot be located, additional legal steps may be required. We can guide you through the best solution, which may include executing a new set of documents.
How often should I update my estate plan?
You should review your plan after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or starting a business. Even without major changes, reviewing your plan every 3–5 years is a good practice.
Are changes to my will included for free after it is signed?
No. Once your will has been finalized and signed, any future changes are not included in the original service fee. Updates or revisions will require an additional fee.
Can I sign my will electronically or with a digital signature?
No. Under Texas law, a will must be signed with a physical ("wet") signature to be legally valid.
Does a Trust mean I avoid probate completely?
A properly funded trust can help your family avoid probate for assets owned by the trust. However, the trust must be correctly established and funded to be effective. We guide you through both steps.
Is estate planning only about money?
No. For many families, the most important decisions involve guardianship of children, medical decisions, and who will act on your behalf if you cannot. Estate planning is ultimately about protecting people, not just property.
Can I create these documents online instead?
Online templates may seem convenient, but they often fail to comply fully with Texas law or account for your unique circumstances. Improper execution or incomplete planning can create significant problems later. Working with an attorney ensures your documents are valid, coordinated, and tailored to your family.