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Texas Estate Planning Lawyer: Protecting Your Legacy the Right Way

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants peace of mind. Whether you’re a young professional, a parent with dependents, or a retiree in Texas, having a proper estate plan can save your family time, stress, and money. A Texas estate planning lawyer ensures your assets are protected and your wishes are honored.

What Does a Texas Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

An estate planning attorney in Texas helps individuals and families:

• Draft legally valid wills and trusts
  
  
• Minimize estate taxes
  
  
• Avoid probate
  
  
• Assign powers of attorney
  
  
• Plan for medical emergencies or incapacity
  
  
• Distribute assets according to your wishes
  
  

These services are customized to Texas law, which includes community property rules, homestead protections, and probate procedures unique to the state.

Why Estate Planning Is Essential in Texas

Texas has some estate-friendly policies, such as no state estate tax, but without a plan, your assets may still end up in probate court—a public, time-consuming, and sometimes expensive process.

Here’s why working with a Texas estate planning lawyer is crucial:

✅ Avoid intestacy laws (where the state decides who gets what)
✅ Prevent disputes among heirs
✅ Ensure care for minor children or disabled dependents
✅ Secure fast, private asset transfer
✅ Appoint someone you trust to make medical or financial decisions if you’re incapacitated

Key Estate Planning Tools in Texas

1. Last Will and Testament

A will outlines how your property should be distributed and names a guardian for minor children. In Texas, a will must be:

• In writing
  
  
• Signed by you
  
  
• Witnessed by two credible individuals
  
  

Without a will, your estate will follow Texas intestacy laws, which may not align with your wishes.

2. Living Trust (Revocable Trust)

A living trust:

• Helps your estate avoid probate
  
  
• Maintains privacy
  
  
• Allows flexible distribution over time (ideal for blended families)
  
  
• Can name a trustee to manage assets if you become incapacitated
  
  

A Texas estate planning lawyer can help you fund the trust properly—meaning assets are retitled in the name of the trust.

3. Power of Attorney (POA)

This legal document allows a trusted person to act on your behalf in financial or legal matters if you become unable to do so.

Types of POA in Texas:

• Durable Power of Attorney (remains in effect if you’re incapacitated)
  
  
• Medical Power of Attorney (covers health care decisions)
  
  

Your lawyer will ensure these forms comply with Texas law and financial institution requirements.

4. Advance Directive (Living Will)

This outlines your wishes regarding end-of-life care, such as whether to receive life support. It ensures your family doesn’t have to make hard decisions in a crisis.

5. HIPAA Authorization

Allows your loved ones or medical power of attorney to access your medical records, which is critical for making informed healthcare decisions.

Common Mistakes a Texas Estate Planning Lawyer Helps Avoid

❌ Not updating your estate plan after major life events
❌ Forgetting to name alternate beneficiaries or agents
❌ Not funding your trust properly
❌ Assuming your will controls everything (some assets bypass your will)
❌ Leaving out digital assets (social media, cryptocurrency, etc.)

An experienced lawyer can help you fix or prevent these issues, ensuring your plan holds up in court.

What Happens Without a Plan in Texas?

If you die intestate (without a will), your estate will be distributed according to Texas law:

• Surviving spouses and children split assets in specific ways
  
  
• Separate and community property are treated differently
  
  
• A probate court will appoint an administrator
  
  
• Disputes are more likely without clear instructions
  
  

This can create unnecessary stress and delays for your loved ones.

How Much Does a Texas Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

Costs vary depending on the complexity of your estate, but here are general estimates:

• Basic will package: $500–$1,200
  
  
• Will + POA + advance directives: $800–$1,800
  
  
• Revocable trust plans: $1,500–$3,500
  
  
• High-net-worth or blended family plans: custom pricing
  
  

Many lawyers offer flat fees and free consultations, so you can explore your options risk-free.

When Should You Start Estate Planning?

The best time to start is now—but especially if you:

• Just got married or divorced
  
  
• Have kids or grandkids
  
  
• Purchased property in Texas
  
  
• Own a business
  
  
• Are nearing retirement
  
  
• Recently lost a loved one
  
  
• Moved to Texas from another state
  
  

Even if you already have an estate plan, it’s smart to review it every 3–5 years.

What Makes a Good Texas Estate Planning Lawyer?

Look for an attorney who:

✔ Focuses exclusively or primarily on estate planning
✔ Understands Texas-specific laws and probate procedures
✔ Offers flat-fee planning services
✔ Takes time to understand your family dynamics and goals
✔ Communicates clearly and explains options

Why Choose The Lange Firm

At The Lange Firm in Sugar Land, Texas, we provide compassionate, experienced estate planning tailored to your family’s needs. Whether you need a basic will or a complex trust structure, we’ll guide you with professionalism, clarity, and care.

Let us help you protect what matters most.