Estate planning

Estate planning refers to the ordering of one's affairs so that property, called the estate, is passed as desired to family and loved ones after death. Estate planning covers the transfer of property at death as well as a variety of other personal matters. This planning may involve the counsel of professional advisors such as attorneys, accountants, financial planners, life insurance advisors, bankers and brokers. Estate planning instruments and methods include wills, living trusts, joint ownership, and durable powers of attorney. According to one expert, Texas law in general is "ahead of the curve" in providing for legal documents and processes used by older Texans and their families.

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Updated: October 21, 2009