last will with gavelMost people understand the concept of a will. We’ve all seen them in movies and on TV. We might imagine a dusty old lawyer’s office with a small group of family members sitting patiently while the lawyer dryly reads a deceased loved one’s last wishes from the will. We also understand the primary function of a will—to distribute a person’s property upon their passing. Many of us consider a will as something we should have without fully understanding why. This series will explore that “why,” discuss the legal requirements for making a will, and highlight some of the common pitfalls that can lead to unintended consequences.

Specifically, this series will discuss the following topics:

  1. Overview—Creating a Will in Texas
  2. The Advantages to Making a Will in Dallas, Texas
  3. Requirements for a Valid Will Under Texas Law
  4. Pitfalls to Avoid When Making a Texas Will
  5. Series Recap— Creating a Will in Texas

This series provides a broad discussion of the process and goals of making a will in Texas, along with the various ways even carefully laid plans can go awry. First, we will discuss the advantages toward making a will, many of which are more subtle than expected. The next post will outline the legal requirements for a valid will in Texas. Next we move on to traps Texans face while creating a will, which may render the will ineffective or lead to unintended results. Finally, we will highlight some of the most important takeaways for Texans who need a will.

Next up, we discuss the obvious and subtle purposes of making a will. Several reasons may surprise you. In fact, for reasons we’ll highlight, you may want to make a will even if you don’t own much property.

Our Dallas probate attorneys assist with estate planning and litigation resulting from estate planning.  Our offices also service Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Denton, Fort Worth, Garland, Irving, Austin, Houston, San Antonio, Nacogdoches, Lufkin, and Center. Please contact us today if you have any questions about creating a will and the validity of wills.