
Under Texas Law an Unmarried Partner is Often Treated as a Legal Stranger
Many Texas couples spend years building a life together without ever getting married. They share a home. They share expenses. They may help raise children

Many Texas couples spend years building a life together without ever getting married. They share a home. They share expenses. They may help raise children

For many Texas blended families, the family home is often the most valuable asset in the estate. Unfortunately, it is also one of the assets that creates the most confusion under Texas law.

Texas is one of the few states that recognizes common law marriage. As a result, some couples may be legally married under Texas law even though they never had a wedding, never obtained a marriage license, and never intended to create the legal consequences of marriage.

The reality is that if you do not create an estate plan, Texas already has one for you. The question is whether you will like it.

The Estate of The Union Podcast – Estate Planning Challenges Blended Families Face In Texas is out now. In this episode of Estate of the

As more adults enter their later years without a spouse, children or close family support, the need for thoughtful, proactive estate planning has never been greater.

Failing to update your estate plan after a divorce can lead to unintended outcomes, including the possibility that an ex-spouse may still inherit from your estate.

Handling a loved one’s final tax return can be more complicated than expected, often leading to delays that can stall estate administration and distributions.

While naming a spouse as trustee may seem like the natural choice, it is not always the best decision for managing trusts effectively and protecting beneficiaries.

When a family loses a loved one, the last thing they need is added stress. However, the probate process often brings paperwork, delays and emotional strain that can weigh heavily on grieving families.