Let’s clear something up: estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or the elderly. It’s for anyone who wants to make sure their wishes are honored and their loved ones aren’t stuck in a legal mess. And when it comes to creating a strong, legally sound plan in Texas, having an estate planning attorney in your corner can make all the difference.
You can do a lot with online templates and virtual paralegal help (yep, we’re all about that at Intrepid Paralegal Solutions), but there are certain situations where an attorney is not just helpful—they’re essential.
So What Does an Estate Planning Attorney Actually Do?
In plain terms, an estate planning attorney helps you protect your stuff, your family, and your wishes—both while you’re alive and after you’re gone. But it goes deeper than just drafting a will.
Here’s a closer look at how they can help under Texas law:
1. Create and Review Legal Documents
They draft or review documents like:
- Wills
- Trusts (revocable, irrevocable, special needs)
- Powers of Attorney
- Advance directives (like living wills)
- HIPAA authorizations
They’ll ensure these documents comply with Texas law and reflect your real intentions—not just fill in the blanks.
2. Navigate Complex Family Situations
Got a blended family? Estranged relatives? A child with special needs? An estate planning attorney helps you think through scenarios you may not even consider, and they’ll structure your plan to avoid family conflict (or at least try to).
One of our clients in Tyler worked with an attorney to create a trust that protected his daughter’s inheritance while also providing for his new spouse. It took some creative structuring, but it kept everyone secure and respected.
3. Minimize Taxes and Probate Hassles
Texas doesn’t have a state estate tax, but there are still federal taxes and probate court headaches to consider—especially if you own property in multiple states, have a large estate, or run a business. A good estate attorney helps reduce those burdens through trust planning, charitable giving strategies, or business succession plans.
4. Provide Legal Advice and Representation
Here’s something we paralegals can’t do: give legal advice or represent you in court. If your estate plan involves legal conflicts, complex assets, or a potential will contest, you’re going to want an attorney who can stand by you legally—especially during probate litigation.
5. Keep Everything Up to Date
Life changes—marriages, divorces, new kids, job changes, or buying property. An estate attorney can make sure your plan keeps up. The last thing you want is an outdated will leaving your ex all your belongings (yikes, right?).
When Do You Really Need an Attorney?
While some folks can get by with help from a virtual paralegal (like us!) for simple wills and power of attorney docs, here are signs that you definitely need an attorney involved:
- You own a business or real estate in multiple states
- You’re in a blended family or have complicated family dynamics
- You want to set up a trust or charitable foundation
- You expect your estate to be worth over the federal tax exemption
- You suspect someone might contest your will
- You’re planning for a loved one with a disability or long-term care needs
How We Work With Estate Planning Attorneys
At Intrepid Paralegal Solutions LLC, we don’t replace attorneys—we support them. Many of our clients come to us to prepare initial drafts, organize documentation, and get a head start on the planning process. That way, when they walk into the attorney’s office, they’re informed, organized, and saving time (and let’s be honest—saving money too).
One of our long-time clients in San Antonio told us how helpful it was to get all her documents drafted and reviewed virtually before finalizing everything with her attorney. “It felt like I already had 80% of the work done,” she said. That’s the kind of win-win we love.
Wrapping It Up: It’s a Team Effort
Estate planning in Texas doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right team—an attorney for legal guidance, and a virtual paralegal for hands-on support—you can create a plan that’s legally sound, thoughtfully crafted, and totally you.
Need help figuring out where to start or whether you need an attorney? Visit www.ipsvirtual.com, and we’ll walk you through the process step by step. We’re here to make estate planning feel doable—not daunting.