See the Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

What is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is the process of anticipating and preparing for what will happen if you pass away or become incapacitated. With a well-structured, personalized estate plan, you can effectively protect yourself and your loved ones—no matter what happens.

Is Estate Planning Only About Property Distribution?

No. Although preparing your assets and property is an important part of the estate planning process, a proper plan should be comprehensive. It should also contain documents such as a power of attorney to ensure that your loved ones will have the authority to manage your financial, legal, and medical affairs if you are unable to do so.

What Happens If I Never Create an Estate Plan?

If you fail to create an estate plan, it can create many different challenges for your family. To start, you will lose the ability to decide what happens to your property/assets. Instead, your estate will be handled under Texas state intestacy laws. Beyond that, your family may have a hard time protecting you if you become temporarily or permanently incapacitated.

Am I Too Young to Start the Estate Planning Process?

No. Every adult can benefit from an estate plan. Even if you have a relatively simple estate, a plan offers protection. With the proper structure in place, you can continuously update your estate plan to meet your needs.

How Often Should I Revise My Estate Plan?

You should review your estate plan after all major life changes. Examples include marriage, the birth of a child, and inheritance of money/property. Additionally, it is a best practice to review your estate every few years to make sure it still effectively carries out your wishes.

Should I Draft a Will or Create a Trust?

It is not an either-or question. Every adult should have a will. Beyond that, you may also benefit from setting up a trust. In certain circumstances, trusts are an effective and efficient estate planning tool. A Texas estate planning attorney can help you determine if a trust is the right option for you and your family.

How Much Does it Cost to Create an Estate Plan?

Estate planning does not have to be expensive. At The Cawlfield Law Firm, PLLC, we offer flat-fee estate planning services to individuals and families in Texas. We are committed to full transparency in our rates so that our clients know exactly what they are getting into. If you have specific questions about costs, please do not hesitate to call our law office.

How Do I Prepare for a Meeting with an Estate Planning Attorney?

Estate planning is not a one-size-fits-all service. A proper estate plan should be customized to carry out your goals and meet your unique needs. To prepare for an initial consultation with an estate planning lawyer, you should bring as much information as possible about your family, your finances, and your objectives. A lawyer’s job is to craft a plan that provides the maximum level of legal protection and helps you best achieve your goals.

What does a probate attorney do?

A probate attorney helps families and executors manage the legal process after someone passes away. This may include filing court documents, identifying and valuing assets, paying debts, resolving disputes, and distributing property to beneficiaries.

When is probate required?

Probate is usually required when someone passes away owning assets solely in their name without a beneficiary designation, trust, or joint owner.  Additionally, probate is necessary if the deceased’s will is contested or disputed.

What are the benefits of probate?

Probate provides a formal legal process for settling a person’s estate after they pass away. It can help ensure that assets are properly identified, debts and taxes are addressed, beneficiaries receive what they are legally entitled to, and disputes are resolved through the court if needed. Probate can also provide transparency and accountability, especially when there are multiple heirs, unclear instructions, or concerns about how the estate is being handled.

Do I need a probate attorney if there is a will?

Yes, you may still need a probate attorney even if there is a will. A will typically must be submitted to the probate court before assets can be legally distributed. An attorney can help ensure the process is handled correctly.

What happens if someone dies without a will?

If someone dies without a will, they are considered to have died “intestate.” In that case, state law determines who inherits the estate. A probate attorney can help family members understand their rights and navigate the court process.

What Is a Title Attorney?
A title attorney specializes in verifying property ownership and ensuring there are no legal issues with the title before a transaction. They help protect buyers and lenders from potential claims.

Why Is a Title Search Important?
A title search ensures that the property being purchased is free of liens, encumbrances, or ownership disputes. A title attorney can conduct this search and address any issues that arise.

What Happens If There’s a Problem with the Title?
If a title issue is discovered, a title attorney can work to resolve it, whether it involves clearing liens, correcting errors, or negotiating with other parties.

Where Is The Cawlfield Law Firm Located?
Our office is located at 129 N. Ohio St., Celina, TX 75009.

What Services Does The Cawlfield Law Firm Offer?
We specialize in estate planning, probate, title services, and more. Our goal is to provide personalized legal solutions for individuals and families in Texas.