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Wills

Dallas-Fort Worth Wills Attorneys

We Simplify All Aspects of Wills

Crain & Wooley knows that you have worked hard your whole life to provide for your family. That is why we are dedicated to providing clients with the comprehensive legal services and reliable legal representation they need to make sure their assets are passed on to their loved ones when they pass away.

Our will lawyers in Dallas and dedicated legal professionals can help you prepare for life's eventualities and other situations that might take your loved ones by surprise by drafting an effective will. With our firm’s legal guidance and assistance, you and your loved ones can feel secure in the future knowing your important affairs will be properly handled when you pass away.

Our compassionate Dallas wills lawyer knows how important it is to proactively plan for the future, so please call (972) 945-1610 or contact us online now so we can discuss everything that needs to be included in your will. 

Understanding Wills: Basics and Benefits

What Is a Will?

A last will and testament is probably the most common form of estate planning. It is typically a typewritten document that is signed in front of a Notary Public. Your will states your wishes regarding the disbursement of assets and allows you to:

  • Designate who receives your assets
  • Designate who will oversee your estate (Executor)
  • Provide for certain life scenarios, like a child preceding you in death
  • Ensure the court has a record of your last wishes

A will is not just a legal document; it is a powerful tool to ensure your final wishes are carried out. Including specific instructions regarding the care of minor children or donations to charities can make a significant impact. A well-drafted will considers not just your immediate assets but also long-term wealth transfer strategies to benefit future generations. Discussing your will with your family and executor can help prevent disputes and ensure clarity regarding your intentions.

A last will and testament serves to establish basic guidelines for asset distribution. To execute your will, your Executor must complete the probate process. In the DFW metroplex, the average probate case takes about six months to complete and costs approximately $10,000 in court, attorney, accounting, and appraisal fees.

What Happens If I Pass Away Without A Will?

If you pass away without a valid will, you risk your estate being contested by other parties. If this occurs, your intended beneficiaries will have to go to court to fight for the assets and property that they are entitled to. The best way to avoid unintended consequences with important estate matters is to hire an experienced lawyer to draft your last will and testament.

Are you having difficulty talking to a loved one about the importance of drafting a will and handling other important estate planning affairs? Then please click here to find out the best way to approach these topics with respect and sensitivity.

When Should I Write My Will?

Creating a will should be proactive, not reactive. You should get started on writing your will if you are married, have kids, or have a positive net worth.

Starting a will is often best tackled earlier than most people realize. Life changes rapidly, and ensuring your will reflects your current circumstances can protect assets and dictate their distribution accurately. For young adults, especially those embarking on significant life changes such as buying a home, starting a family, or launching a business, a will ensures that your assets and personal wishes are respected and followed during unforeseen events.

Steps to Create a Will: A Clear Guide

How to Create a Will?

  1. Determine the Appropriate Will Type: Identify the most suitable type of will for your circumstances.
  2. Outline Your Assets: Compile a list of assets you wish to include in your will, ensuring thoroughness and clarity.
  3. Designate Beneficiaries: Thoughtfully decide who will inherit your assets, considering their needs and your wishes.
  4. Select an Executor: Choose a trusted individual to carry out the instructions in your will efficiently and responsibly.
  5. Address Guardianship for Minors: If you have underage children, carefully designate a guardian who will provide them with care and support.
  6. Consider Charitable Contributions: While optional, you may opt to include a charitable organization as a beneficiary in your will.
  7. Witness and Sign: Finalize your will by signing it in the presence of witnesses, ensuring legal validity.
  8. Secure Storage: Store your will in a secure location, such as a safe or with a trusted advisor, to prevent loss or tampering.
  9. Regular Review and Updates: Periodically revisit your will, making necessary adjustments to reflect significant life changes or updates in your preferences.

Creating a legally sound will involves thorough preparation and understanding of the legalities involved. Each step in drafting a will ensures that all necessary details regarding your assets and last wishes are meticulously documented. For instance, beneficiaries should be informed of their status in your will to avoid surprises that could lead to conflicts. Additionally, reviewing your will with the assistance of a lawyer, especially after significant life events, helps in making necessary amendments reflecting your current wishes.

For experienced guidance, turn to a skilled will attorney in Fort Worth at Crain & Wooley. Contact us or call (972) 945-1610 to secure a free consultation.

What Are the Benefits of a Will?

Writing a will is an essential step in ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away. Our experienced wills attorneys at Crain & Wooley can help you create a comprehensive will that covers all aspects of your estate, including property, finances, and guardianship for minor children.

Benefits of having a comprehensive will include:

  • Peace of mind knowing your loved ones are taken care of
  • Clear instructions for asset distribution
  • Minimization of potential conflicts among family members
  • Protection of your children's future
  • Avoidance of intestacy laws determining asset distribution

A will also grants you control over who gets what and aids in the efficient management of your affairs. It can also reduce the burden on your loved ones during an emotional time by providing clarity and legal direction. Furthermore, through a will, you can appoint trusted individuals to manage your estate, ensuring your legacy is protected, and family dynamics are preserved. By pre-planning with a will, you’re empowering your family by relieving them from making tough decisions on asset and debt distributions during the probate process.

Don't wait until it's too late. Contact us today to start the process of drafting your will and protecting your loved ones' future.

Creating a Valid Texas Will: Key Requirements

What Are The Requirements For Creating a Valid Texas Will?

Creating a valid will in the state of Texas is crucial for ensuring that your wishes are honored and your assets are distributed according to your intentions. As experienced Dallas-Fort Worth will lawyers, we can guide you through the process to ensure that your will meets all legal requirements.

Below are some of the key requirements for ensuring that your will is valid in Texas:

  • Age and Capacity: The individual making the will, known as the testator, must be at least 18 years old. The testator must also possess testamentary capacity, which entails understanding the nature of creating a will and its implications.
  • Written Document: A written will is required. Texas does not accept oral wills; thus having a written will is crucial.
  • Proper Signature: The testator must sign the will with two witnesses present. The will must also be signed by the witnesses.
  • Witnesses: The will must be witnessed by at least two credible witnesses who are at least 14 years old. These witnesses must sign the will in the presence of the testator. Ideally, the witnesses should not be beneficiaries to avoid potential conflicts of interest.
  • Self-Proving Affidavit: A self-proving affidavit is not necessary, but it can make the probate process easier. In order to verify the legality of the will and do away with the requirement for witnesses to testify in court, this entails the testator and witnesses signing an affidavit in front of a notary public.

Ensuring the validity of your will is a fundamental step in safeguarding your estate. By understanding and adhering to state-specific legal guidelines, you minimize the risk of disputes or invalidations. Engaging a knowledgeable attorney to review the legal nuances further ensures the smooth administration of your estate, offering your beneficiaries a streamlined probate process. Your attorney can also provide valuable insights on maximizing estate tax benefits and asset protection through proper will structuring, ensuring your estate is managed according to your exact wishes.

Our team of will attorneys in Dallas-Fort Worth can help ensure that your will complies with all Texas laws and effectively reflects your wishes. By consulting with a knowledgeable attorney at Crain & Wooley, you can achieve peace of mind knowing that your will is legally sound and enforceable.

Connect with an experienced will lawyer near you in Fort Worth as soon as possible. Dial (972) 945-1610 or submit an online form.

Understanding Fort Worth Probate Court

If you are dealing with the probate process in Fort Worth, it's essential to understand how the local probate courts operate. The Tarrant County Probate Court handles most probate matters within the Fort Worth area. Tasks often begin with filing the necessary paperwork, which confirms the validity of the will and designates the executor who will manage the estate’s affairs. Estate administration in Fort Worth entails various legal requirements, such as notices to creditors and the inventory of estate assets, which need to be meticulously managed to ensure legal compliance.

Being aware of the specific procedural requirements and deadlines is crucial. Fort Worth has its own set of local rules that can impact the probate timeline. Working with a Fort Worth-based attorney from Crain & Wooley ensures that all local procedures are accurately followed, reducing the risk of unnecessary delays or legal challenges. Our team is familiar with the intricacies of the Tarrant County Probate Court and can streamline this often complex process, providing reliable navigation through each step. By understanding Fort Worth’s probate dynamics, clients can manage their expectations and streamline estate administration effectively.

The Role of a Will Lawyer Near Me in Fort Worth

Choosing a will lawyer near you in Fort Worth brings numerous advantages in terms of accessibility and personalized service. A local will lawyer is not only familiar with Texas state laws but also understands the nuances of regional requirements and common issues specific to Fort Worth. This localized knowledge aids in tailoring estate plans that best protect your interests, ensuring that every critical detail aligns with the state's legal framework and local practices.

Engaging a local attorney means easier consultations and the opportunity for face-to-face meetings, helping foster a better understanding of your needs and goals. With our client-centric approach, Crain & Wooley prioritizes clear communication and transparency, offering guidance every step of the way. We emphasize understanding your long-term objectives and building robust estate plans that reflect your values and future goals. Collaborating with a Fort Worth attorney provides not only legal accuracy but also a partnership based on trust and tailored advice attuned to your individual situation.

Crain & Wooley is ready to help you. Get in touch via online form or call (972) 945-1610. Your initial consultation is free of charge.

Commonly Asked Questions About Wills

What happens if I die without a will?

If you pass away without a valid will, your estate may be contested by other parties, leading to potential court battles for your intended beneficiaries. It's best to hire an experienced lawyer to draft your last will and testament to avoid such scenarios.

How Does a Will Affect Estate Taxes?

Having a well-drafted will can significantly affect how estate taxes are handled upon your passing. A comprehensive will outlines not only the distribution of assets but also helps to strategize around potential estate taxes. In Fort Worth, as part of Texas, there is no state-level estate tax, but federal estate taxes may apply if the estate's value exceeds the federal threshold. Effectively planning your estate with a legal professional ensures that you can utilize available tax credits and exemptions, thus potentially reducing the tax burden on your heirs.

Including tax planning strategies within a will can mean setting up trusts that minimize the taxable estate or allocating assets in a way that leverages marital deductions. An estate plan could include provisions for managing the impact of taxes on investment portfolios and other assets, thereby preserving more of the estate’s value for your beneficiaries. Consulting with a will attorney who knows both state and federal tax implications can save significant amounts, protecting and maximizing your estate’s longevity and financial contribution to your beneficiaries.

When should I update my will?

You should update your will when significant life events occur, such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or acquisition of new assets. It's important to review and make changes to your will to reflect your current circumstances.

What Are DIY Wills and Their Risks?

DIY wills have become increasingly common as people seek to assert control over their estate planning without incurring legal fees. However, DIY wills come with significant risks, particularly if they do not comply with state-specific legal requirements, which can render them invalid. In Fort Worth, a DIY will may overlook critical elements such as witness signatures or specific bequests, potentially leading to disputes or an unintended distribution of your assets.

While a DIY will may seem cost-effective initially, errors or omissions can lead to costly legal battles later on, far outweighing any upfront savings. Working with a qualified will lawyer ensures compliance with Texas laws and helps personalize the will according to your unique needs, minimizing the chance of future disputes among beneficiaries. This preventative approach could safeguard your interests and protect your loved ones from potential legal challenges.

Can I appoint a guardian for my minor children in my will?

Yes, you can designate a guardian for your minor children in your will. This allows you to specify who will take care of your children in the event of your passing, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

How Secure Is My Will Once Executed?

Once executed, the security of your will is paramount to ensure that your final wishes are honored. It’s essential that the original will is stored in a safe, secure location where it can be easily accessed upon your passing, such as a safety deposit box or with your attorney. Many opt to store their will in safe deposit boxes or with their will attorney to prevent unauthorized access or potential loss or damage.

Discussing the storage location with trusted family members or your designated executor can prevent confusion and ensure that your will is readily available when needed. Knowing who is holding the original documentation can avoid unnecessary legal hurdles during the probate process. It's also wise to keep a non-binding copy in a secondary location as a backup while ensuring the placement of the original is clear and accessible to your executor or attorney.

Contact Us to Get Started Drafting Your Will

At Crain & Wooley, we understand that you want to feel confident knowing your valuable assets and property will be passed on to your loved ones, which is why we are here to help you draft a will that is tailored to your unique estate planning goals.

If you have additional questions regarding drafting a will, then please get in touch with a will attorney at our firm so you can meet our friendly team. When you choose our law firm, we will take the time to get to know you and become familiar with the specific details of your circumstances so that we can devise a customized legal strategy.

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If you want a seasoned lawyer in your corner as you navigate the legal process, please call (972) 945-1610 to discuss how we can bring peace of mind to you and your family. You can also use our online scheduler to pick out an appointment time that conveniently fits your busy schedule.

Satisfied Clients Tell Their Stories

  • "Thank you and God Bless you"

    Thank you for being my Living Trust and other Estate documents attorney. Due to our move and storage of business and personal documents, we had trouble locating & we took a lot longer to respond to your drafts, etc. You were very patient with me and my needing lots of explaining of legal terms and meanings. At my age, I was concerned about getting things done but wanting it all done right. You were very prompt in responding to my questions and I think by time of signing I felt confident we had things just the way we wanted to protect my heirs. Thank you and God Bless you.

    - Donna V.
  • "Very much appreciated"
    I am very much appreciated your service If anyone like me needed your service I will introduce about you. Everything you did with in a week. Very much satisfied all your service.
    - Sarah P.
  • "Smooth and easy"
    Learning about trusts at the meal was easy and educational. The set down at the office was where the finer points of trusts was explained. That is where and when we decided to make it safe and easy for our heirs. Our final meeting where we signed everything and an explanation of each item was given went smooth and easy. All in all I would say the investment in the trust was worth it.
    Thank you to Crain & Wooley office and staff
    - Anonymous
  • "Professional and knowledgeable"

    My husband and I recently had our living trust completed through the help of Crain and Wooley. Justin and his staffs are professional and knowledgeable. A special thanks to client education specialist Stephen. He is such a nice gentleman and always answers our questions clearly and right to the point, and always ready to help by answering your concerns promptly. We will certainly refer the law firm to our families and friends!

    - Susan X.
  • "Excellent, Highly recommend"

    We went to seminar to just find out what we needed to do for a will, They gave us all the info we needed right then there. Offered a really good price if we signed up to get one that day. A few weeks later after our appointment we have a Living trust. They were helpful with all our questions and were very thorough with these explaining the whole process. They stuck with the price that we paid + let us call anytime if we had any questions. Excellent, Highly recommend this company.

    - Linda B.
  • "So good to finally have a plan"

    After worrying about our lack of estate planning for years, it feels so good to finally have a plan in place. Thank you for making the process relativity painless and offering the educational support we needed.

    - Leslie W.
  • "5 Stars"
    Me and my appreciate Mr. Crosby we think that he was very professional in doing his job and we give him 5 stars when it come to him doing his Job.
    - James A.
  • "Overall experience was seamless"

    We recently had the opportunity to attend a workshop hosted by Crain & Wooley regarding wills and estate planning. Based on the information provided we decided to proceed with our estate planning with Justin and his team.  The overall experience was seamless and the process was clearly communicated. We had our homework and once that was completed, several iterations later we had our final walk-through and signed estate plan. We would recommend Justin to our family and friends.

    - Earl B.

Designed for Your Comfort & Convenience

Estate Planning With Us Means:
  • Flat-Rate Pricing*

    Finally, you won’t need a lawyer to understand your legal fees. We clearly communicate our pricing structure upfront, so you can feel comfortable with our service from start to finish. No surprises, no hidden fees. *Our flat rate fees apply only to proactive planning services.

  • Optional Lifetime Guarantee
    With our optional lifetime guarantee, your will and trust will be automatically updated over the years to ensure it stays current with best practices, reflects your current wishes and minimizes future confusion for your family.
  • Knowledgeable Service
    Laws change all the time. We stay up to date with all the latest information so that you’re covered. No one else in the region is as dedicated or educated in this area of law. We’re the experts so you don’t have to be.