Intestacy vs. Probate – Either way, Do Not Wait!
Intestacy Law in the State of Texas In Texas, if you die without a Will, the state of Texas writes a will for you, and disposes of your property, generally, by marriage and blood-lines (spouses and children (blood and adopted)). Obtaining a Judgment Declaring Heirship is usually more costly than probating a Will and can delay title transfers to descendants. Having a Will admitted to Dallas Probate Court makes the process of passing property to Read More...
I Have Been Appointed as the Executor or Administrator — Now What?
If you are appointed as a personal representative of an estate, more specifically, if you are appointed Read More...
Affidavits of Heirship – To Use Them or Not to Use Them?
Affidavits of Heirship can be a difficult area of law to understand. At the Spencer & Johnson, PLLC Read More...
Adoption By Estoppel
In Texas, there is an inheritance theory known as adoption by estoppel; some call it a common-law Read More...
George Michael: Unexpected Death Without an Estate Plan
The unexpected death of the influential, iconic and wealthy British singer George Michael (real name Read More...
Do NOT Ignore Survivorship Claims and the Requirements to Pursue Them
It is true you do not have to open an Estate to pursue a wrongful death claim; mainly, because the Read More...
Questions About Attorney-Client Privilege Regarding Deceased Parties
Does the attorney-client privilege disappear when the client does? (I seem to recall it remains). Does Read More...
The Probate Process When a Decedent Dies With a Will
What Do I Do With a Will After Someone Dies? What Happens to the Will? Following the death of a Read More...
Prince’s Estate. Why Has it Taken so Long?
Since the tragic passing of beloved “Purple Rain” singer Prince, there has been a legal battle Read More...
End of Life Care and Your Will
Even the thought of becoming incapacitated can be chilling. Making decisions regarding what happens if Read More...