When creating a power of attorney (POA), it is crucial to choose an individual who is trustworthy and capable of managing your affairs in your stead. Below are some considerations you should have before naming your POA agent. The agent’s characteristics When choosing...
Texas Legal Blog
The right to fair compensation in Texas eminent domain cases
In Texas, understanding eminent domain is particularly relevant due to the state's expansive infrastructure projects and continuous development. Eminent domain is the right of the government to seize private property. It is a legal concept that allows government...
What makes a trust valid under Texas law?
Transferring your assets into a trust can be a smart move when planning for the future. However, many individuals don’t take this step until it’s too late. When this happens, the assets accumulated during a lifetime may be subject to probate rather than personal...
What constitutes “public use” for the purposes of eminent domain?
The concept of eminent domain allows the government to seize private property for public use. However, this authority has its limits, some of which are set by the definition of its aspects, such as the term “public use”. If you are a property owner who wants to ensure...
Is the government eyeing your property? What you can do
Imagine simply enjoying the fruits of your labor and facing a Texas government claim on your land the next day. While upsetting, this scenario happens quite often. It arises due to the state’s authority to invoke eminent domain laws or to take private property for...
Could your loved one benefit from a special needs trust?
If you have a loved one who requires special care and support, you may have concerns about what will happen to him or her in the future if you are no longer around to care for him or her. There are ways you can craft an estate plan that will allow you to address these...
Have you been victimized by inverse condemnation?
In most eminent domain cases, the government approaches property owners to discuss paying just compensation in exchange for taking land for public use. Even though that sounds straightforward, there can be complications along the way, including arguments over whether...
Understanding the probate process in Texas
If your loved one passes away with a will, their estate will go through the probate process which ensures their assets are distributed to their beneficiaries and their debts are paid. Probate process The first step in the probate process is to file a petition with the...
What does just compensation include for commercial property owners?
No matter what land or property the government or other entities target for public use acquisition, they must compensate the affected owners accordingly. However, owners receive varying compensation depending on the nature of their property. The government primarily...
Should you simplify assets as you approach estate planning?
The estate planning process is, in essence, all about planning for the future. And, oftentimes, simple plans are the best ones, both for those who are drafting the estate plans and the ones who will benefit from the plans. Overly complicated estate plans are usually...