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 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 ReadingWhen two parties cannot resolve a business dispute through negotiation or mediation, the case may end up in court. A business disputes lawyer can help you understand what to expect after a lawsuit is filed and evaluate whether it’s the best course of action for your particular case. In this article, the Texas business lawyers at Massingill go over...
Continue ReadingMergers and acquisitions can be excellent ways for businesses to expand their markets. They are also great options for business owners who wish to move on to reap the rewards of all their hard work. Mergers and acquisitions are for more than just mega-corporations. Small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from combining as well. The benefits of a merger...
Continue ReadingWorries about the costs of estate planning are normal. Unfortunately, these worries often lead to prolonged procrastination. Many Americans let their concerns about costs stop them from formulating an estate plan. In fact, less than half of Americans have a will. Without a will, you are putting your estate and your loved ones in a bad position once you...
Continue ReadingAfter a person dies, their estate must go through an official legal process before it is distributed to beneficiaries. This process ensures that the estate pays its debts and gets distributed according to the decedent’s wishes if they left a will or state law if they did not leave a will. This process is called probate. However, not all...
Continue ReadingAttracting stakeholders can be a great way to quickly and effectively grow a business and meet an uncaptured demand. But having multiple shareholders involved also causes numerous complications. Chief among them is when shareholder disputes arise. With multiple people relying on the successful operations of the business, clashes of personality and differing views about how the company should move...
Continue ReadingWriting a will can provide many benefits to our families once we pass on. A will can prevent conflict between family members, clearly explain how property is to be distributed, and reduce our family’s costs in probate court. Any one of these goals makes the initial effort well worth it. Unfortunately, less than half of Americans have a written...
Continue ReadingFor a layperson or a small business owner, sometimes it is difficult to tell the difference between a business lawyer and a corporate lawyer. Both sound like they know what happens behind the boardroom doors. But like everything in law, there is usually a reason for specific terminology. If you are struggling to understand whether your situation calls for...
Continue ReadingAs the American population gets older and sicker and healthcare gets more expensive, healthcare fraud has become more prevalent across all levels and types of care. Preventing healthcare fraud and abuse has thus become a top priority for regulators and law enforcement officials at all levels of government. Healthcare fraud is more difficult to combat than other types of...
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