San Antonio Estate Planning Law Office

At the Law Office of Jon R. Disrud, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive estate planning services to the San Antonio community. Our founder, Jon Disrud, a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve and former judge advocate, brings over 30 years of experience and a deep understanding of military law to your estate planning needs. When you work with us, you will work with Jon personally, not just with a paralegal or an inexperienced associate. We understand the estate planning needs of professionals and business owners in San Antonio. We can help you protect your assets and secure your family’s future.

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services

We assist with a wide range of estate planning documents to ensure that your wishes are clearly outlined and legally binding after you pass away:

• Wills: A will is a fundamental document that outlines how you want your assets distributed after your passing. We help you draft a will that reflects your wishes and complies with Texas probate law.
• Trusts: Trusts can provide significant benefits, including avoiding probate and protecting your assets. We can help you set up various types of trusts to meet your specific needs.
• Powers of attorney for finances and health care: These documents allow you to designate someone to make financial and health care decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. We ensure these documents are thorough and tailored to your situation.
• Advance directives: An advance directive outlines your preferences for medical treatment and end-of-life care in case you are unable to communicate your decisions. We help you create clear and comprehensive advance directives that reflect your values.
• Business succession planning: If you own a business, it is crucial to have a succession plan in place. We help you develop a plan that ensures a smooth transition and protects your business’s future.

Estate Planning Process

Creating an estate plan is a crucial step in protecting your assets and helping ensure your final wishes are honored. Outlined below is a step-by-step process of how the NAPNAME can help you:

• Initial consultation: We start with a detailed discussion to understand your goals, assets and family dynamics. This allows us to customize your estate plan to your unique needs.
• Document preparation: After gathering the necessary information, we can draft essential documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney and advance directives. Each document serves a specific purpose, from designating beneficiaries to ensuring your medical preferences are respected.
• Review and revisions: You will have the opportunity to review the drafted documents, and we can adjust them based on your feedback to ensure your plan reflects your wishes.
• Finalization and execution: Once you approve the documents, we guide you through the signing process, ensuring compliance with Texas law. We also provide clear instructions on where to store your documents and who should have access to them.
• Periodic updates: Life is not static, and circumstances change. We offer periodic reviews to update your estate plan as needed, whether due to changes in the law or major life events like marriage.

By following this process, the NAPNAME can provide clarity, security and peace of mind for you and your family.

Estate Planning Resources

To assist you in understanding estate planning in Texas, we have compiled a list of helpful resources:

• Texas Probate Code: Learn more about Texas laws governing estate planning and probate. Understanding the state’s specific regulations can help you make informed decisions.
• Estate planning basics guide: A user-friendly overview of key estate planning concepts. This guide simplifies the process and highlights essential steps to consider.
• IRS estate tax information: Get the latest federal estate tax rules information. Knowing how taxes impact your estate ensures proper planning to minimize liabilities.

These resources can provide additional insights, but working with our skilled lawyer ensures your estate plan complies with Texas law and addresses your specific needs.

Probate Process In San Antonio

Probate can be a complex and time-consuming process. In Bexar County, the probate process generally follows these steps:

• Filing the application: The executor or administrator files a probate application with the Bexar County Probate Court. This initiates the legal process and ensures the estate is handled according to the law.
• Validation of the will: If a will exists, the court verifies its validity. If no will exists, the court determines the legal heirs. This step is critical to ensure the estate is distributed appropriately.
• Appointment of executor or administrator: The court formally appoints the executor named in the will or an administrator to oversee the estate. This person is responsible for managing the estate’s assets and debts.
• Inventory and distribution: The executor identifies assets, pays debts and taxes, and distributes the remaining assets to beneficiaries.

We can simplify this process by guiding you through every step, minimizing stress and ensuring all legal requirements are met.

Estate Planning Myths Debunked

Misconceptions about estate planning can lead to costly mistakes. Here are some common myths and the truth behind them:

• Myth 1: Only the wealthy need estate plans
  Truth: Estate planning benefits everyone. It ensures your assets, regardless of size, are distributed according to your wishes and helps avoid family disputes.
• Myth 2: A will avoids probate
  Truth: A will does not bypass probate. It provides instructions for the probate process. Trusts or other planning tools may help avoid probate, making it essential to explore all your options.
• Myth 3: Estate planning is a one-time task
  Truth: Estate plans should be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect life changes, such as marriage or divorce.
• Myth 4: Young people don’t need estate plans
  Truth: Unexpected events can happen at any age. Estate planning ensures your loved ones are cared for and your medical preferences are known. Young adults, particularly those with dependents, benefit from having a plan in place.

We have debunked these myths for you so that you can make informed decisions about your future. Taking proactive steps in estate planning provides peace of mind and protects your assets.

Convenient San Antonio Location

Our office is conveniently located just off Highway 281 and Wurzbach Parkway in San Antonio. The Bexar County Courthouse and Bexar County Probate Courts are a short drive away. Additionally, our office is close to major landmarks such as the San Antonio International Airport and North Star Mall, making it easy to find and access.

The Right Choice For San Antonio Estate Planning

When you choose the Law Office of Jon R. Disrud, you are selecting a San Antonio estate planning attorney dedicated to establishing an estate plan tailored to the needs of yourself and your loved ones. Contact us today at 210-569-0581 to schedule a consultation and take the first step in securing your future.

Law Office of Jon R. Disrud
13750 San Pedro Avenue, Suite 410
San Antonio, TX 78232
Phone: 210-569-0581
Fax: 210-494-6640
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