When someone dies, their assets are usually divided into two legal categories: probate and non-probate assets. But what are probate assets? And what does it mean when something is categorized as non-probate? Whether an asset is considered probate or non-probate property will determine how it will be distributed after a person’s death. In this post, the Austin probate attorneys...
Continue ReadingWhen you enter into an agreement with another person or entity, you assume the other party will hold up their end of the bargain. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Under Texas contract law, a non-breaching party has the right to bring legal action against the breaching party to recover damages if they choose to do so, but what should you...
Continue ReadingBusinesses change over time. It is very rare for the ownership of a company to remain the same over a long period of time, especially when there are multiple owners. Still, many business owners are unsure of how to change the ownership percentage of an LLC in Texas. In this article, we will discuss the two main ways to...
Continue ReadingTexas House Bill 3749 (HB 3749), known as “Jenifer’s Law,” was signed into law on June 20, 2025, and will take effect on September 1, 2025. Initially feared to impose strict new regulations on IV hydration clinics and med spas across Texas, the final version of the bill may actually reduce some compliance burdens for clinic owners and supervising...
Continue ReadingWhen someone creates a trust, they must appoint a person or institution to manage the trust’s assets and carry out its terms: a trustee. In short, a trustee is legally responsible for managing trust assets for the benefit of someone else. They must act with honesty, care, and loyalty to ensure they manage the trust in the best interests...
Continue ReadingStarting a business in Texas can feel like learning a new language with all the acronyms and terms involved, like LLCs, EINs, and DBAs. Then someone asks, “Who’s your registered agent?” If you’re scratching your head, you’re not alone. Many business owners wonder, What is a registered agent for LLC paperwork, and why does it matter? In reality, this...
Continue ReadingWhen it comes to estate planning, most people have the same goal: to make things as stress-free and straightforward as possible for the people they love. That’s exactly what a Transfer on Death Deed (TODD) can help you do, especially if you own real estate in Texas. At Massingill, our superpower is making the complex simple, and TODDs are...
Continue ReadingYou’ve worked hard for what you have—your home, your savings, your family traditions—and now you’re wondering how to protect it all. If you’re considering a trust, you’re already ahead of the curve. At Massingill, we simplify the complex. That’s especially true when it comes to estate planning. Too often, people assume trusts are only for the ultra-wealthy. Not true....
Continue ReadingWhen a loved one passes away, handling their estate can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to honor their memory while navigating the legal process. That’s where a small estate affidavit can provide real relief. If you’re wondering what a small estate affidavit in Texas is, you’re not alone, and Massingill is here to make the complex simple. This...
Continue ReadingThe short answer as to whether you need an EIN number for a business in Texas is: Probably. Most businesses are required to acquire an employer identification number (EIN), and getting one is relatively simple. However, the benefits and requirements of an EIN depend on the type of business you own, which can be more complex. In this article,...
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