Estate Planning

Estate Planning Helps Protect Your Family and Your Future

Estate planning allows you to make important decisions today that can protect you and your loved ones tomorrow. Whether you want to decide who receives your property, appoint someone to make financial or medical decisions if you become unable to do so, or name a guardian for your minor children, an estate plan gives you control over those decisions.

It is a common misconception that estate planning is only for retirees or individuals with significant wealth. In reality, every adult can benefit from having an estate plan. Whether you are married, single, have children, own a home, or have recently gone through a divorce, planning ahead can provide peace of mind and make life easier for your family.

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What Does an Estate Plan Include?

Every estate plan is tailored to your individual needs and goals. Depending on your circumstances, your plan may include:

Last Will and Testament
Statutory Durable Power of Attorney
Medical Power of Attorney
HIPAA Authorization Directive to Physicians
Declaration of Guardian for Minor Children
Revocable Living Trust, when appropriate

When Should You Review Your Estate Plan?

Estate planning is not something you complete once and forget. You should review your documents after major life events, including:

Marriage or remarriage
Divorce
The birth or adoption of a child
A significant change in assets
Retirement
Moving to Texas from another state

Reviewing your estate plan helps keep it aligned with your wishes as your life changes.

Why should I work with an attorney instead of using online forms?

An attorney can prepare documents that comply with Texas law and are tailored to your family’s specific needs. Although some online forms might be useful, there is no guarantee that they will be approved for probate. And at that point, it would be too late to correct any mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an estate plan if I already have a will?

Yes. A will is only one part of a complete estate plan. Many people also benefit from powers of attorney and medical directives.

When should I update my estate plan?

Review your estate plan after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, retirement, or significant financial changes.

Do I need a trust?

Not everyone does. Whether a trust is appropriate depends on your goals, your assets, and your family circumstances.

Can I update my estate plan after a divorce?

Yes. Divorce is one of the most important times to review your estate planning documents to make sure they still reflect your wishes.

Experienced Estate Planning Guidance

With more than 30 years of legal experience, Paula Lock Smyth helps individuals and families throughout Dallas and North Texas prepare estate plans that reflect their goals and protect the people who matter most. Whether you are creating your first estate plan or updating existing documents, she provides practical guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.

Start Planning for the Future

Creating an estate plan today can help your family avoid unnecessary stress and uncertainty in the future. It also gives you the opportunity to make important decisions about your future while providing guidance for the people you care about most.

Contact Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices at 214-420-1800 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

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What People are Saying

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