When 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,...
Continue ReadingA limited liability company (LLC) can be a useful structure for your small business. If you have determined it is the best entity for your business, you may want to set it up as soon as possible. The sooner you have your business up and running, the sooner you can start selling your goods or services and earning money. So, how...
Continue ReadingWhen planning a will, many people assume that filling out a single document or form is enough to divide their property appropriately upon death. They aren’t aware of the benefits of doing wills online vs attorney. Unfortunately, this often results in unforeseen problems, such as beneficiaries contesting the will. At Massingill, we are dedicated to helping clients protect their...
Continue ReadingIf you are considering filing or have found yourself defending against a civil lawsuit, you may wonder, How much does a civil attorney cost? The answer depends on many factors, including the attorney’s fees and experience, when and whether you settle, and how complicated the legal and factual disputes are. A case that requires only a few hours of...
Continue ReadingIf you want to save costs on an estate plan, you may wonder, Can I write my own will and have it notarized? Will that make it legally valid? While you can write your own will and have it notarized in Texas, that will not make it legally enforceable. Courts do not follow unenforceable wills. If you leave an...
Continue ReadingPeople usually prefer to avoid legal disputes. But sometimes you just can’t. You know you should hire a lawyer, but you might not know where to find one or even how to begin. Whether you need to sue someone or someone is suing you, finding a lawyer with the right experience and approach for your unique situation is essential....
Continue ReadingA crucial step in the administration of someone’s estate after the individual passes away is determining the value of the estate by doing an estate valuation. After all, you cannot fairly divide and distribute the estate’s assets to your descendants if you do not know what the estate is worth. Navigating the complexities of estate distribution and calculating the...
Continue ReadingNegotiating, drafting, and enforcing contracts is an important part of any business’s life cycle. Contracts form the backbone of successful business relationships, but having the proper contract is critical. A properly executed business contract should clearly outline the terms and conditions of the agreement, including the rights and obligations of each party, and provide mechanisms for resolving disputes, all...
Continue ReadingPeople form businesses together with the best of intentions. Entrepreneurs share a vision and work together to realize it. In many cases, they create a limited liability company (LLC) to maximize tax benefits and minimize business formalities. Unfortunately, the business world is not all sunshine and harmony. When conflict arises, many companies find themselves asking how to remove a...
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