When someone dies, the clock starts ticking. Texas law gives an executor four years from the date of death to file the will for probate. But what if that doesn’t happen? What if the executor does not probate the will, either intentionally or by neglect? The answer can shape what happens to property, debts, and family peace for years....
Continue ReadingIn the Lone Star State, contracts form the backbone of nearly every business relationship. When one party fails to uphold their end of the deal, the fallout can disrupt operations and profits. If you’re searching for contract disputes examples, you’re likely facing a disagreement over a deal that once seemed clear. Most contract issues follow familiar patterns, so understanding...
Continue ReadingWhen a loved one dies without a will, distributing their estate can add even more hardship to a grieving family. In most cases, the decedent’s estate will go through a probate process involving lengthy delays and court oversight. Fortunately, there are some methods heirs can use to receive the decedent’s property without going through probate. A Texas affidavit of...
Continue ReadingA last will and testament is a foundational estate planning document. In a will, you can lay out how you want your assets distributed upon your death. You also name an executor who will oversee your estate. While this concept is straightforward in principle, there are many factors to consider when drafting a will. Most importantly, you need to...
Continue ReadingWhen someone writes a will, their main goal is simple: To make sure their property goes to the right people. However, ensuring that goal becomes a reality in Texas requires understanding how to identify a primary beneficiary vs. a contingent beneficiary and how they work together. Without clear designations, assets can fall into probate or be distributed according to...
Continue ReadingEDITOR’S NOTE: THIS IS A GUEST POST BY JOHN FINCHER, A CERTIFIED BUSINESS INTERMEDIARY IN AUSTIN, TEXAS. JOHN IS NOT AN ATTORNEY, BUT WE ASKED HIM TO SHARE SOME THOUGHTS WITH OUR READERS WHO MAY BE CONTEMPLATING SELLING A BUSINESS. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN. Key Takeaways Selling a business is complex and time-intensive: The process often takes nine...
Continue ReadingWhen a person dies in Texas, their estate must be settled and distributed among their heirs. An estate is just a fancy word for describing all the things that a person owns, including their cash and investments. When lawyers talk about “probating” an estate, they simply mean settling the estate against any outstanding debts and liabilities. Whether a person...
Continue ReadingLosing a loved one is never easy, and grief is the first and most important part of the process. However, handling that loved one’s estate to honor their wishes is usually not far behind. This process, called probate, can feel overwhelming, but understanding how it works can make it easier to manage. At Massingill, we make the probate process...
Continue ReadingOne of the most important roles in a trust is the grantor. Yet, many wonder, What is a grantor and what rights do they have in trusts? A trust’s grantor creates the trust and establishes terms defining how it will work. The grantor decides who should benefit from the trust by naming one or more beneficiaries, and also selects...
Continue ReadingTexans have a reputation for being independent, and starting a business is one of the boldest ways to live that out. But independence doesn’t mean going unprotected. If you’ve been wondering how to start an LLC in Texas, you’re likely looking to shield your personal assets while keeping your business flexible. Starting a successful business can seem complicated. But...
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