FAQs

A will is a legal document that outlines how your estate should be divided after your death. To make one, you must be at least 18 and mentally capable. It must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two people over 14. A will doesn't transfer property on its own—it usually must go through probate. If you're looking for dependable estate planning attorneys in Ft Worth, TX, contact Coggin & Coggin PLLC today.

A trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee manages assets for one or more beneficiaries, based on instructions from the person who created the trust (the settlor). Trusts can help protect assets, control how wealth is distributed, reduce estate taxes, support loved ones with special needs, and avoid probate for greater privacy and efficiency. For more information, get in touch with our trust and estate planning attorneys in Ft Worth, TX today.

A power of attorney lets someone act on your behalf, either broadly or for specific tasks. Common types include a Medical Power of Attorney, which allows someone to make healthcare decisions if you're incapacitated, and a Statutory Durable Power of Attorney, which lets someone manage your finances. These powers can take effect immediately or only if you become incapacitated. As the best estate planning lawyers in Ft Worth, TX, we're here to help you understand all parts of the legal process.

An executor is the person you name in your will to handle the administration and distribution of your estate after you pass away. This role is often filled by a trusted family member, such as a spouse or adult child, but it can be anyone who is responsible, detail-oriented, and reliable. Executors are responsible for appearing in probate court, gathering and protecting assets, managing estate finances, paying debts, and distributing the estate according to the will. Similarly, a trustee is someone you appoint to manage the assets in a trust. They are legally obligated to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries and follow the terms of the trust. Because a trustee’s role can span many years, it's important to choose someone who is committed long-term, and to name at least one alternate. You may also opt for a corporate trustee, such as a bank or trust company, for a fee. For more information, contact our estate planning attorneys in Ft Worth, TX.

In our expert experience, it’s wise to review your estate plan every two to three years to ensure it still reflects your wishes and current circumstances. You should also consider updating it after major life events such as moving out of Texas, getting married or divorced, the death of a spouse, beneficiary, trustee, or guardian, receiving a significant inheritance, or if a child develops a special-needs condition. Regular updates help keep your plan accurate and effective. If you have any questions or want to adjust your plan, contact the best estate planning lawyers in Ft Worth, TX at Coggin & Coggin PLLC.

Probate and estate administration is the legal process of handling a loved one’s affairs after their death. This includes gathering their assets, paying off debts, and distributing what remains according to their will or, if there is no will, under state law. Not all estates require probate, so it's best to consult an attorney to determine what’s necessary. An estate typically includes assets owned at the time of death, such as real estate, vehicles, valuables, financial accounts, and business interests—but does not include assets that transfer automatically, like accounts with named beneficiaries. If a will exists, it must be probated within four years of the person’s death. Contact our estate planning attorneys in Ft Worth, TX today to learn more about the process.

To help your family avoid probate, consider setting up a trust and naming payable-on-death beneficiaries on your bank and investment accounts. For real estate, a Lady Bird Deed can transfer property directly to loved ones. While probate in Texas is relatively efficient, it can still be time-consuming, costly, and public—making these strategies worth considering. If you're looking for the best estate planning lawyers in Ft Worth, TX, contact Coggin & Coggin PLLC today.

A limited liability company (LLC) is a legal entity that holds business assets like real estate, vehicles, and financial accounts, helping protect your personal assets from business-related claims or lawsuits. If properly structured, only the assets within the LLC are at risk. An LLC can also be divided into Registered Series (e.g., Series A, B, C), allowing for added protection by keeping each series’ assets and liabilities separate—an especially useful setup for rental property owners. If you have more questions about legal processes, don't hesitate to reach out to our estate planning attorneys in Ft Worth, TX. We cannot wait to assist you.

A Lady Bird Deed lets you transfer real estate to loved ones without going through probate. It’s signed and filed during your lifetime, but only takes effect after your death. You keep full control of the property while you're alive and can revoke the deed at any time. Contact the best estate planning lawyers in Ft Worth, TX at Coggin & Coggin PLLC today to learn more about probate, estate planning, and more.

Wealth protection strategies are designed to preserve your assets and reduce potential losses. These often include diversifying investments across various asset classes like stocks, bonds, and real estate, securing insurance coverage (such as life, disability, and long-term care), maintaining an emergency fund, and creating a comprehensive estate plan. Avoiding high-risk investments and working with a trusted financial advisor are also key components of a solid wealth protection approach. For more information or to work with our estate planning attorneys in Ft Worth, TX, call our team today.