Please join us in welcoming Mr. Zachary Hobbs to SWB. Zach is a corporate and construction litigation associate attorney helping businesses navigate complex legal disputes. A Texas A&M University and Baylor Law School graduate, he combines strategic advocacy with a results-driven approach to protect his clients’ interests in and out of the courtroom. Welcome, Zach!
A majority of people think that estate planning documents, such as trusts, are only for high-wealth individuals or families. As such, they might not often think about creating a trust, but there are still several reasons why having one could be beneficial, even on a smaller scale. Here are a few:
Ultimately, a Trust can provide peace of mind for individuals, regardless of income, knowing their wishes will be honored and their assets protected. Our Estate Planning experts at Saunders, Walsh & Beard look forward to discussing this with you. To see what type of Trust would be best for your situation, give us a call today.
When it comes to estate planning in Texas, trusts offer several advantages over wills. Here’s why you might consider using a trust instead of a will:
Avoiding Probate
One of the most significant benefits of a trust is that it allows your heirs to avoid the probate process entirely. This can save them considerable time and money, as they won’t have to wait for approval from the probate court to inherit property. In contrast, a will must go through probate, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Enhanced Privacy
Unlike wills, which become public record once entered into probate, trusts remain private documents. This means that the details of your estate and beneficiaries are not accessible to the public, protecting your family’s privacy.
Flexibility in Asset Distribution
Trusts allow for more sophisticated asset distribution plans. You can specify conditions for asset distribution, such as beneficiaries reaching a certain age or achieving specific milestones. This level of control is typically not possible with a will.
Protection in Case of Incapacity
A trust can offer protection if you become disabled or incapacitated. By designating a trustee, your assets can be managed on your behalf, and your family can access them immediately. Wills generally do not provide this capability.
Reduced Potential for Disputes
Trusts are much more difficult to contest in court compared to wills. This can help avoid expensive and unnecessary fights among beneficiaries, ensuring your wishes are followed after your passing.
Special Needs Planning
If you have an heir with special needs, a trust can be particularly beneficial. It allows you to provide for them without disqualifying them from receiving important government benefits, which could happen if assets were left to them directly through a will.
Control Over Asset Distribution
With a trust, you can maintain control over how and when your assets are distributed. This is particularly useful in situations involving blended families or when you want to ensure responsible management of inherited assets.
While establishing a trust may be more complex and costly upfront than drafting a will, the long-term benefits often outweigh these initial drawbacks. Trusts provide a more flexible, efficient, and private means of managing and distributing your assets after your death, making them an optimal choice for many Texans.
Remember, while trusts offer many advantages, it’s essential to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney to determine the best approach for your specific circumstances and ensure your estate planning documents are properly prepared and legally sound. Mr. Michael A. Weaver, Partner at Saunders, Walsh & Beard, specializes in estate planning law. Call us today to schedule your consultation with Mr. Weaver.
Please join us in welcoming Mr. Omar Alahmady, an experienced civil litigation attorney, to SWB. With a strong background in litigation, Mr. Alahmady assists both individuals and businesses in navigating complex legal challenges, always striving to provide practical and effective solutions. Whether representing clients in high-stakes disputes or offering strategic litigation guidance, he is dedicated to safeguarding clients’ interests, minimizing risks, and achieving the best possible results. Welcome, Omar!
We are thrilled to announce that Chapman Bauerlein has been promoted to Partner at Saunders, Walsh & Beard. This significant achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and exceptional legal skills he has consistently demonstrated since joining the firm.
Chapman joined Saunders, Walsh & Beard in 2019 and quickly established himself as a valuable member of the team through his ability to tackle complex cases with confidence and expertise. Over the years, he has built a reputation for his client-centered approach and solution-oriented mindset.
In 2023, Chapman was recognized as a Texas Rising Star in Business Litigation by Super Lawyers magazine—an honor that highlights his standing among the top up-and-coming lawyers in Texas. This accolade reflects his legal acumen and commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. Chapman’s promotion is not just a personal milestone; it represents the values of excellence and teamwork that Saunders, Walsh & Beard embodies.
Please join us in congratulating Chapman on this well-deserved promotion! We look forward to seeing all the great things he will accomplish in this new role.
