top of page
Search


Frequently Asked Probate Questions
At The Toups Law Firm, we guide families through probate every day, and we’re here to make it easier. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about probate in Texas.

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Sep 103 min read


When Must a Will Be Probated?
Does a will need to be probated? The answer is it depends!

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Aug 262 min read


What is a Probate Asset?
Ever wondered what the heck a probate asset is? Let us explain!

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Aug 91 min read


How Should I Store my Estate Planning Documents?
Do you know where your estate planning documents are? What's the best location to store your documents?

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Mar 12, 20241 min read


When Should I Update my Estate Planning Documents?
There are a few times that you should consider updating your will or trust.

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Mar 11, 20242 min read


Five Scary Estate Planning Mistakes That Will Leave Your Loved Ones Haunted
Come October witches, ghosts, and scary faces start popping up all over the place. No pharmacy or front yard is safe! While we may enjoy...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Oct 23, 20194 min read


Letters Testamentary Are Much More Than a Letter
After the death of a loved one, people are often told by a bank or other financial institution that they need to obtain letters...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Apr 26, 20191 min read


What to Do When a Loved One Dies
Losing a loved one is a painful part of life. Being the one responsible for closing their affairs can make that painful time even more...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Mar 14, 20194 min read


In Our First Year
Next week, The Toups Law Firm will celebrate our first anniversary of being in business. Anyone that has started a business understands...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Jan 25, 20192 min read


Five Things You Will Leave That Are More Important Than Money
Most of estate planning involves very serious matters like where your assets will go when you pass away and who would take care of the...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Dec 6, 20183 min read


Why You Need an Agent for Disposition of Remains
One of the most important estate planning documents you may have never heard of is an appointment for disposition of remains. This is a...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Nov 28, 20182 min read


How to Choose Someone to Act On Your Behalf
First and foremost, someone you allow to act on your behalf is generally called a fiduciary. When you plan your estate you choose several...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Sep 20, 20183 min read


What is a Trust and Why Would I Need One?
Trusts are commonly thought to be complicated, but in reality trusts are often used to simplify matters. Think of a trust as a bucket. If...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Jul 19, 20182 min read


3 Mistakes to Avoid When Talking to Your Kids About Your Estate Plan
A recently published study claimed that while nearly three-fourths of parents thought they had discussed their estate plan with their...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Jul 2, 20182 min read


What is a Trust and Why Would I Need One?
Trusts are commonly thought to be complicated, but in reality trusts are often used to simplify matters. Think of a trust as a bucket. If...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Jun 7, 20182 min read


Beneficiary Designations: The Overlooked Step in Updating Your Will
You recently updated your will, congratulations! Before you will find a safe place to keep your documents and put estate planning out of...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
May 11, 20182 min read


Can I Hand Write a Will?
Handwritten wills, formally known as holographic wills, are valid in Texas. However, they can create more issues than they solve....

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Mar 29, 20181 min read


Reasons to Consider a Trust
Reasons to Consider a Trust One of the most common questions I hear from my clients is “Do I need a will or a trust?” In many cases the...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Mar 8, 20182 min read


Why You Need a Team
Have you ever Googled something and either received a wrong answer or so many different answers that you are not sure which one is right...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Mar 5, 20182 min read
What Is Probate and Do I Need It?
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. In simpler terms, probate allows a person (often called an...

Ruth-Ann E. Toups
Feb 23, 20181 min read
bottom of page