Call Now At (979) 300-6771
Creating a will is a crucial step in passing on your assets and preserving your legacy. It’s what most people imagine when they think of estate planning—and with good reason. A well-prepared will ensures your wishes are followed and can significantly ease the process for your loved ones.
If you’re over 18 and haven’t yet created a will, now may be the time. A will, formally known as a “last will and testament,” is your opportunity to outline exactly who should receive your assets, whether that’s family, friends, charities, or other beneficiaries. It helps prevent confusion and stress for loved ones who otherwise might face tough decisions or heated disputes.
A startling 66% of Americans don’t have a will, meaning millions each year leave their estates vulnerable to the standard legal processes in their state. In Texas, if you die without a will, your property will be distributed strictly according to state law, often without regard for your personal preferences. This could mean that friends, charities, or other important individuals in your life receive nothing, while the government’s pre-set formulas determine who inherits your assets.
Texas families have experienced the impact of this reality, especially in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic was a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change. For many, the tragic loss of loved ones highlighted the importance of having a legally valid, updated will in place. By taking the time now to create or update a will, you’re ensuring that your wishes are clear and that your loved ones won’t be left navigating a legal maze.
Choosing the right lawyer to help draft your will means working with someone who understands both the law and the community you call home. Attorney Fred Medina, a Texas estate planning attorney serving Bryan and the Brazos Valley, brings a local perspective rooted in personal and professional experience. Raised in this community, and with a background that includes time as a Teamsters Union member and military service, Fred Medina’s approach is grounded in real-life experience.
For many, the main concern in estate planning is ensuring their hard-earned assets go to the right people with minimal government interference or family disputes. Attorney Fred Medina listens to what matters most to you, then crafts a will tailored to your goals and values. Whether you want to pass on your property, protect loved ones from future conflict, or minimize probate complications, he will walk you through each step.
Some may consider drafting their own will or using an online tool to save money upfront. While it’s legal in Texas to create a will without an attorney, it can also come with significant risks.
Errors in wording, accidental omissions, or incomplete clauses can lead to costly legal issues later on, including probate challenges and family disputes over ambiguous terms. A will that is improperly drafted or incomplete may even be declared invalid, meaning the court would then apply the standard laws of inheritance, potentially disregarding your actual wishes.
A skilled will lawyer does more than draft a document; they guide you through the decisions involved, highlight potential areas of conflict, and ensure your will accurately reflects your wishes. Working with an experienced estate planning lawyer like Fred Medina can help you ensure your will is carefully structured to avoid common pitfalls.
Drafting a will isn’t a one-time task; it’s a document that should evolve as your life does. This doesn’t mean your will needs constant updating, but it’s important to revisit it periodically, especially if there’s a significant life event. If you get married, divorce, welcome new children, lose a family member, or acquire new property, these changes should be reflected in your will.
For example, young parents might focus on naming guardians for minor children and setting up financial provisions. As children grow and become financially independent, those priorities may shift. Without updating your will, probate courts will be bound to follow an outdated document, which may no longer align with your current wishes.
Attorney Fred Medina works with clients over time, not just for a one-time transaction. He’s available to help you update your estate plan as needed, ensuring your will remains relevant and effective at each stage of your life.
Whether you’re considering creating a will for the first time or updating an existing one, it’s worth speaking with a qualified estate planning attorney. In Bryan, Texas, attorney Fred Medina is ready to assist. His office is welcoming, and he’s committed to helping you secure your assets, provide for loved ones, and establish a clear path for your legacy.
If you’re ready to get started or simply have questions about estate planning, call (979) 300-6771. Making these preparations now can relieve future burdens on your loved ones and give you peace of mind, knowing that your wishes will be respected. Don’t leave your legacy to chance—contact Fred Medina and take control of your future today.
Call Now at (979) 300-6771
