Southeast Texas Estate Planning Attorneys
For Individuals
Planning for the future can feel overwhelming, but establishing a comprehensive estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take to provide for your loved ones and make sure your assets are distributed according to your intentions.
Whether you are just starting to think about drafting a will or you want to explore the benefits of trusts, an experienced estate planning attorney can help. At Wadler Perches & Kerlick, our experienced attorneys are committed to helping you set up an estate plan that is tailored to your unique needs.
Located in Wharton, Texas, we guide clients throughout Southeast Texas through the estate planning process with clarity and care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Importance of Estate Planning
Estate planning goes far beyond writing a simple will. At its core, estate planning is about protecting your legacy and making sure your family is cared after you pass away.
Without a thoughtfully crafted plan, your assets may be subject to lengthy and costly probate proceedings, wherein state laws—not your personal wishes—will determine how your estate is distributed. For families, this can lead to unnecessary legal complications and emotional stress during an already challenging and emotional time.
At Wadler Perches & Kerlick, our attorneys are deeply familiar with Texas laws that impact estate planning, and we are experienced in creating comprehensive estate plans that are both legally sound and tailored to your specific wishes.
Benefits of Proper Estate Planning
Estate planning is more than just avoiding legal complications and minimizing taxes. It's about making sure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, protecting your loved ones, and preserving your legacy. Some of the most common benefits of establishing a proper estate plan include the following.
Control over your assets: With a proper estate plan, you can have control over how your assets will be managed and distributed after your passing. You can specify who will receive your property and when they will receive it. This level of control allows you to provide for your loved ones in a way that aligns with your values.
Reduction of estate taxes: Proper estate planning can help reduce the taxes and fees associated with transferring your assets after your death. By utilizing strategies such as gifting, charitable giving, and establishing trusts, you can minimize the impact of taxes and probate on your estate.
Probate avoidance: Probate is a legal process that determines the validity of a will and oversees the distribution of assets to beneficiaries. A properly executed estate plan can help avoid probate, as well as the associated costs and delays. Certain assets, such as those held in a trust, may not be subject to probate at all.
Protection of minor children: Estate planning allows you to name guardians for your minor children in case something were to happen to you and your spouse. Without this designation, a court will have to determine who will take care of your children, which may not align with your wishes.
If you or someone you know is considering establishing an estate plan in Southeast Texas, contact us at Wadler Perches & Kerlick to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help.
For Experienced Guidance
Our Estate Planning Services
At Wadler Perches & Kerlick, we provide a full spectrum of estate planning solutions designed to make sure your assets are managed and distributed as you see fit. Whether you need assistance with a straightforward will or you’re interested in complex trust arrangements, our attorneys bring their expertise to every aspect of your estate plan. Some of the primary services we offer include the following.
Wills
Your will is the foundation of your estate plan. This legal document expresses your wishes regarding how your property and assets will be divided upon your passing. It can also be used to name guardians for minor children, outline your funeral preferences, and more.
Texas has specific legal requirements for creating a valid will. For example, it must be signed in the presence of two witnesses who are at least 14 years old and who do not stand to benefit from the will. Our attorneys will make sure your will meets all legal standards while stating your intentions clearly and comprehensively.
Trusts
A trust is a versatile tool that gives you greater control over how and when your assets will be distributed. Trusts can help avoid probate, protect assets from creditors, and provide financial security to beneficiaries over time. Depending on your needs, we can help establish the following types of trusts.
Revocable living trusts: These flexible trusts can be altered or terminated during your lifetime and allow for smooth asset transfer after death.
Irrevocable trusts: Once established, these trusts cannot be modified, offering benefits such as tax savings and asset protection.
Special-needs trusts: Designed to support loved ones with disabilities while preserving their eligibility for government benefits.
Powers of Attorney
No one plans to lose the ability to make their own decisions, but unexpected life events can happen. A power of attorney allows you to appoint a trusted individual to act on your behalf in managing financial decisions if you become incapacitated. We can help you draft durable powers of attorney and other financial directives that permit capable hands to manage your affairs should you be unable to do so.
Healthcare Directives
A healthcare directive, sometimes called a living will, makes sure your medical preferences are honored if you cannot communicate them yourself. It can specify your wishes regarding life support, organ donation, and other critical healthcare decisions. This document can also designate a medical power of attorney, which empowers a loved one to make healthcare decisions on your behalf.
Guardianships
If you have minor children or dependents with special needs, you can appoint a guardian in your will who can care for your children if you are unable to do so yourself. We can help you with naming guardians to make sure your loved ones are cared for by someone you trust.
Business Succession Planning
For business owners, estate planning includes preparing for the future of your business. We can help create succession plans to make sure your company can transition smoothly, whether it passes to family members, partners, or other designated individuals.
Charitable Giving
Many of our clients wish to incorporate charitable contributions into their estate plans, either through donations or establishing charitable trusts. We can help structure these plans in a way that maximizes the impact of your generosity while offering potential tax benefits.
Southeast Texas Estate Planning Attorneys
At Wadler Perches & Kerlick, we understand that estate planning is deeply personal. That’s why we’re committed to providing compassionate, approachable service while delivering expert legal guidance. Don’t leave the future to chance. Whether you’re just starting to think about estate planning or you need to update an existing plan, our attorneys are here to help.
Located in Wharton, Texas, we serve clients throughout Southeast Texas, including Fort Bend County, Wharton County, and Matagorda County. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward peace of mind for you and your family.