A will package includes a complete set of legal documents designed to protect your property, finances, health, and loved ones according to your wishes.
Your Last Will and Testament outlines how your assets will be distributed after your death, who will serve as your Independent Executor, and who will care for any minor children. This document ensures your property passes according to your wishes rather than through state intestacy laws.
This document allows you to appoint a trusted individual to make business and financial decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated or disabled. It helps ensure that your affairs continue to run smoothly, even when you cannot manage them personally.
A Medical Power of Attorney designates someone you trust to make healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to do so. This ensures that your medical preferences are respected during critical times.
Also known as a Living Will, this document specifies your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments. It provides clear instructions to your loved ones and doctors about how you want end-of-life medical decisions handled.
This declaration allows you to name who you want to serve as your guardian of the person and estate in case you become incapacitated. It also allows you to specify individuals you do not want serving in that role—providing additional protection and control over your future care.
For parents, this document ensures you decide who will care for your minor children if you become incapacitated or pass away. Without it, the court could make this decision without your input.
A HIPAA Authorization allows designated individuals to access your medical records and health information. This ensures your chosen decision-makers can stay informed and make well-supported healthcare choices on your behalf.
This document gives your appointed agent the authority to decide how your remains are handled after your passing, including burial or cremation preferences. It helps your loved ones honor your final wishes with clarity and confidence.
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Every comprehensive estate plan in Texas should include a Last Will and Testament, Statutory Durable Power of Attorney, Medical Power of Attorney, Directive to Physicians (Living Will), HIPAA Authorization, and Declaration of Guardian. Together, these documents protect your assets, healthcare choices, and loved ones if you become incapacitated or pass away.
Yes. Even if you have a revocable living trust, a Last Will and Testament—often called a “pour-over will”—is still necessary. It ensures any assets not titled in the trust are transferred into it after your death and allows you to name guardians for minor children, which a trust cannot do.
It’s wise to review your estate planning documents every year and update them after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant changes in assets. Regular updates ensure your plan reflects your current wishes and complies with the latest Texas and federal laws.
If you die without a valid will, your estate is distributed according to Texas intestacy laws, not your personal wishes. The court will appoint an administrator, and your property will go to heirs as defined by statute, which may exclude close friends or stepchildren. Having a will ensures you—not the state—decide who inherits your estate.
While you can make certain updates, it’s best to work with an experienced estate planning attorney. Texas laws have strict requirements for executing valid legal documents, and DIY changes may cause confusion or render your plan unenforceable. An attorney ensures your documents remain legally binding and aligned with current law.
Estate planning for blended families requires extra care to ensure children from previous relationships and new spouses are treated according to your wishes. Without proper documents, Texas intestacy laws may unintentionally favor a surviving spouse over biological children. A customized will, trust, and beneficiary designations can prevent conflicts, protect all family members, and honor your intended legacy.
A Medical Power of Attorney gives a trusted person the authority to make healthcare and treatment decisions if you become incapacitated. A Statutory Durable Power of Attorney, on the other hand, allows someone to handle financial and business matters on your behalf. Both documents are vital parts of a Texas estate plan, ensuring your medical and financial affairs are managed by people you trust.
“Many people think a will is all they need, but ancillary documents are just as vital. These documents — like powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and living wills — ensure that your wishes are respected if you can’t speak for yourself. They also help your loved ones avoid confusion, conflict, and costly delays. A complete estate plan gives you peace of mind knowing every detail is covered.”
— Lori Ashmore Peters, Managing Partner at Ashmore Law Firm
A comprehensive will package is the foundation of a secure future. Learn how our Dallas legal team can help you protect your assets and loved ones for years to come.
