Taking the time to plan for what will happen to your personal belongings after your passing is one of the most important legal steps you can take. While it may feel uncomfortable to think about who inherits your jewelry, home, or family heirlooms—or who makes decisions for you if you become incapacitated—this is precisely why estate planning matters.
With guidance from experienced estate planning McAllen attorneys, you can create an estate plan that ensures your wishes are followed and that your loved ones avoid unnecessary legal stress.
What Is Estate Planning?
Estate planning is the legal process of distributing your assets and property according to your wishes. It often involves drafting estate planning documents like wills, living trusts, and powers of attorney to prepare for illness, incapacity, or death.
- With a comprehensive estate plan, you determine:
- Who receives your property?
- Who will raise your children if necessary
- Who makes financial or medical decisions if you’re unable
- How to avoid unnecessary taxes or delays in court
Estate planning also protects your family from having your estate handled by the probate court without your input.
Wills & Living Trusts: What’s the Difference?
A will outlines how you want your assets distributed after your death and allows you to name an executor. However, wills must go through the probate process, which can delay access to your assets.
A living trust, on the other hand, allows you to transfer ownership of your assets into a trust while you’re still alive. This helps your beneficiaries avoid probate and often results in faster, more private distribution.
You can include both in your estate plan for added flexibility and control.
Understanding the Probate Process
If you pass away without a will or trust, a probate court will step in to decide how your assets are distributed. This often results in:
- Delays in asset distribution
- Increased legal costs
- Disputes among heirs
- Court decisions that may not reflect your wishes
The probate process typically includes filing the will, informing heirs, confirming the document’s validity, paying outstanding debts, and distributing assets. A knowledgeable probate attorney can guide your family through this process with confidence.
Why Choose Local Estate Planning Attorneys
Our team of estate planning McAllen attorneys at Fryer and Hansen is committed to helping South Texas families create an estate plan that reflects their values and protects their loved ones. We take the time to explain every part of the process, from drafting a power of attorney to establishing a living trust, so you feel confident and supported.
Start Planning Today
There’s no better time than now to secure your future. Contact Fryer and Hansen to speak with a trusted estate planning McAllen lawyer. We’re here to help you craft a plan that works—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.