Estate Planning Lawyer in Houston, TX

SIMPLE LAW TX

Looking for an estate planning lawyer in Houston, TX? You've come to the right place.

At Simple Law TX, we understand that planning for the future can seem overwhelming. That's why we're here to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

Our experienced team, led by attorney Carey Worrell, creates customized estate plans that protect your assets and ensure your wishes are respected. Whether you need a simple will or a comprehensive trust, our estate planning lawyer has you covered.

Don't leave your family's future to chance. Send us a contact form or call us now at (281) 697-6678 to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards peace of mind.

Who Needs An Estate Plan?

You might think estate planning is just for the affluent, retirees, or those in their later years, but almost everyone can benefit from having an estate plan.

You should consider getting one if:

  • You own any assets, including property, vehicles, or bank accounts
  • You have dependents, such as children or elderly parents
  • You want to make sure your healthcare directives are respected if you become unable to communicate.
  • You want to minimize potential conflicts among family members after you're gone
  • You want to protect your assets from unnecessary taxes and legal fees
  • You have a business that you want to keep running after you're gone
  • You want to leave a legacy or support charitable causes

No matter what your age is or how much money you have, creating an estate plan in Houston, TX with the help of an estate planning lawyer gives you control over your assets and ensures that your instructions are carried out after you're gone.

Why Estate Planning Is Essential in Houston, TX

As someone living in Houston, estate planning is particularly important because of the laws and regulations in Texas.

Here are some reasons why you should prioritize estate planning:

Avoid Probate

Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person's estate. Without a proper estate plan, your estate may end up in probate. In Texas, probate can take a long time and be expensive, potentially tying up your assets for months or even years.

By planning ahead, you can help your family avoid probate, save money, and reduce stress during an already difficult time.

Minimize Taxes And Fees

While Texas doesn't have a state estate tax, your estate might still have to pay federal estate taxes if it's worth more than a certain amount. Poor planning can result in unnecessary administrative fees that eat into your estate's value.

Through a strategic approach with an estate planning lawyer, you can implement tax-saving measures and reduce administrative costs, maximizing the amount your beneficiaries receive.

Protecting Your Legacy

Estate planning is about more than just distributing assets; it's about preserving your legacy and ensuring your values are passed onto future generations.

With a comprehensive estate plan, you can specify how and when your assets should be distributed, and set up trusts to provide for loved ones with special needs, or to protect assets from creditors.

It can also include instructions for your children’s care, how your business should be handled, or charitable donations you’d like to make.

What Is Included In An Estate Plan?

A good estate plan includes several key documents, each serving a specific purpose in protecting your interests and those of your beneficiaries.

Most estate plans include:

  • Last Will and Testament
  • Living Trust
  • Durable Power of Attorney
  • Medical Power of Attorney
  • Living Will or Advance Directive
  • HIPAA Release Form
  • Beneficiary Designations
  • Letter of Intent

Our Estate Planning Services And Prices in Houston, TX

At Simple Law TX, our estate planning lawyer offers a range of estate planning services to meet your needs, all at transparent, affordable prices.

Here's what we offer:

Wills and Trusts

We help you create a legally sound will or trust that reflects your wishes for your estate.

A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets should be distributed after you die, while a trust can provide more control over how and when your assets are distributed. Trusts can also help you avoid probate and reduce estate taxes.

Our Will Package is designed to provide comprehensive coverage for individuals and couples. It costs $1,500 for individuals and $2,000 for married couples, and includes:

  • Customized Will
  • Financial Power of Attorney
  • Medical Power of Attorney
  • Living Will
  • HIPAA Release
  • Will execution Ceremony

For those seeking more extensive protection, our Living Trust Package is available at $3,200.

This comprehensive package includes everything in the Will Package, plus all necessary documents to establish a living trust, offering additional benefits such as probate avoidance and increased privacy.

Powers Of Attorney

Our Houston, TX estate planning lawyer also set up powers of attorney for both financial and healthcare matters.

A power of attorney allows you to designate a trusted person to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. This is particularly important in cases of illness, injury, or incapacity.

Our services in this area include:

  • Living Wills
  • Advanced Healthcare Directives
  • Medical Power of Attorney
  • Financial Powers of Attorney

These essential documents are available starting at a flat fee of $200, with rush turnaround available for urgent situations.

Financial Agreements

For couples looking to protect their assets and clarify financial interests, we offer services in drafting, editing, and reviewing financial agreements. These can be particularly important in cases of second marriages or significant asset disparities between partners.

Our flat fee for this service starts at $1,500.

Probate and Estate Administration

In the unfortunate event of a loved one's passing, navigating the probate process can be overwhelming. We’ll guide you through the legal process, handle any disputes, and make sure the estate is distributed according to the will or trust.

Our probate administration services start at $1,500, ensuring that the estate is settled efficiently and in accordance with Texas law.

Why Choose Simple Law As Your Estate Planning Lawyer In Houston, TX?

Choosing the right Houston estate planning lawyer can make a big difference in the quality of your plan and the peace of mind it provides.

Here's why Simple Law TX stands out:

High-Quality Legal Guidance

We believe in providing exceptional legal services without unnecessary frills. Our focus is on delivering high-quality guidance that truly protects your interests and secures your legacy.

We don't try to impress with expensive offices or designer accessories; instead, we let our expertise and results speak for themselves

Two Decades Of Experience

Our lead attorney, Carey Worrell, brings over 20 years of diverse legal experience to serve you.

Her background includes working with both large and small firms, as well as the federal government. Carey's experience is further enriched by her completion of a Federal Court clerkship with the Southern District of Texas and a Navajo Supreme Court internship.

Her wealth of experience ensures that you receive knowledgeable, well-rounded legal advice.

Quick & Inexpensive

We know that time is valuable and legal costs can add up. That’s why our estate planning attorney works efficiently to deliver high-quality estate planning services quickly and at a reasonable cost.

We don’t believe in overcomplicating things; our goal is to provide you with the peace of mind you need, without the hassle.

Cost Transparency

We hate surprise bills as much as you do. Most of our services are offered at flat rates, meaning you know exactly what to expect in terms of costs from the outset.

There are no hidden fees or unexpected charges – our pricing is as straightforward as our legal advice.

No-BS Approach

Our attorney, Carey Worrell, takes pride in her no-nonsense approach to law.

We cut through legal jargon and unnecessary complexities to provide you with clear, actionable advice. We focus on what truly matters – protecting your interests and ensuring your values and priorities are properly documented and legally binding.

FAQs About Estate Planning in Houston, TX

To help you better understand estate planning in Houston, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What Is The Difference Between a Will and a Trust?

A will is a legal document that specifies how you want your assets distributed after your death. It goes through probate, which is a public process. A trust, on the other hand, can be used to distribute assets both during your lifetime and after death.

Trusts typically avoid probate, and offer more privacy and control over asset distribution.

How Much Does A Houston Estate Planning Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer in Houston varies depending on the complexity of your plan and the services you need.

At Simple Law TX, our estate planning services range from $500 for Simple Will Packages to $3,200 for comprehensive Living Trust Packages. We offer transparent, flat-rate fees for most services to ensure you know exactly what to expect in terms of costs.

How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?

It's generally a good idea to review your estate plan every 3-5 years. But you should also update it when big things happen in your life, like:

  • Getting married or divorced
  • Having a baby or adopting a child
  • If someone named in your will dies
  • If there was a significant change in assets or financial situation
  • If you move to a different state
  • If tax laws change in a way that could affect your estate

What Happens If I Die Without A Will In Texas?

If you die without a will in Texas (known as dying "intestate"), your assets will be distributed according to the state's intestacy laws. These laws prioritize spouses and blood relatives, and may not align with your personal priorities.

For example, if you're married with children from a previous relationship, your current spouse and children may inherit your assets in proportions you wouldn't have chosen. Having a will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Can I Create An Estate Plan If I Have A Blended Family?

Yes, and it's particularly important to have an estate plan in blended family situations. Without proper planning, children from previous relationships may be unintentionally disinherited.

We can help create a plan that fairly addresses the needs of all family members, potentially using tools like trusts to ensure your directives are carried out.

Contact A Houston Estate Planning Attorney Today

Don't leave your family's future to chance. Estate planning is a crucial step in protecting your assets, providing for your loved ones, and ensuring your wishes are respected

Our experienced team, led by attorney Carey Worrell, is ready to create a customized estate plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

Take the first step towards comprehensive estate planning today.

Contact Simple Law TX to schedule your consultation.

Schedule a Consultation

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Please note Simple Law TX requires a $200 consultation fee

Simple Law TX Client Testimonials

Hear From Our Clients

Mohammad YousufzaiMohammad Yousufzai
22:56 16 Jun 23
I am extremely grateful for all of your help and bearing with me and my brother through our cases till we got our approvals! Dear Ma’am Carey I write today to express my gratitude for everything you did for us, thank you so much, you are one of the best attorneys in Houston TXI highly recommend Ma’am Carey Worrell for people who looking for best attorney.
Tommy SchmuckTommy Schmuck
10:21 16 Dec 22
Carey was able to fit me in last minute the day before I closed on my new house. I suspected a mistake, and the mortgage company refused to look into it. Carey confirmed the mistake, and helped resolve the issue without delaying my closing. Uploading documents was quick and easy. Very friendly and professional. Definitely would recommend her for any real estate needs.
Adam WrightAdam Wright
17:51 17 Nov 22
Carey is an amazing attorney. I came to her to get my will prepared and was so impressed we have used her for several other issues in real estate since. She is knowledgeable, professional, and will guide you through whatever you need. I have recommended her to family and friends and will continue to use her moving forward!
Lesley ButcherLesley Butcher
19:32 13 Nov 22
It is rare to find someone in this field who is as competent as they are kind. Carey will make you rethink every attorney stereotype you’ve ever heard. Regardless of your legal need, she’ll help you find the best, most affordable solution! I cannot recommend her enough!
Alisa HoggattAlisa Hoggatt
22:40 09 Nov 22
Carey is one of the best attorneys I know. She is the ultimate professional and is also compassionate, thorough and extremely knowledgable. I have referred several clients to her and they are given nothing but the best experience. I highly recommend her and her firm.
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