Estate Law FAQ for Attorney Nhan Nguyen – Houston, Texas
Families across Houston, Westchase, Bellaire, Alief, Southwest Houston, and Harris County often turn to Attorney Nhan Nguyen for help planning their estate, protecting assets, and ensuring their wishes are carried out. Estate law can feel overwhelming, especially if you are unsure what documents you need or how Texas handles property. The following FAQ is designed to help Houston families understand their options and decide the right time to contact an attorney.
What is estate planning, and why do Houston families need it?
Estate planning allows you to control how your property, finances, and medical decisions are handled if you pass away or become unable to manage things yourself. Families in Houston often contact Attorney Nguyen to create a plan that protects their home, savings, and loved ones while avoiding confusion or legal challenges.
What documents are included in a basic estate plan?
Most Houston estate plans include:
- A Last Will and Testament
- Durable Power of Attorney
- Medical Power of Attorney
- HIPAA authorization
- Advance Directive / Living Will
- Guardianship nominations (for parents with children)
Attorney Nguyen reviews each client’s needs to decide which documents fit their goals.
Do I need a will in Texas?
Yes. A will helps ensure your assets pass the way you intend. Without a will, Texas intestacy laws take over, and the distribution may not match your wishes. A will also allows you to choose an executor and name guardians for minor children.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will goes into effect after death and must go through probate.
A trust can manage assets during life and avoid probate if properly funded.
Houston families often choose a trust for:
- Privacy
- Avoiding court delays
- Protecting children or vulnerable family members
- Handling property in multiple states
Attorney Nguyen explains whether a will, a trust, or both are right for your situation.
Can estate planning help avoid probate in Texas?
Yes. Certain tools—such as revocable living trusts, beneficiary designations, and transfer-on-death deeds—can help your assets pass directly to loved ones without court involvement. Attorney Nguyen helps families choose the right strategies based on Houston property values, assets, and family structure.
How often should I update my estate plan?
You should update your estate plan anytime a major life change occurs, including:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Significant change in assets
- Buying or selling a home
- Moving to or from Texas
Attorney Nguyen regularly reviews estate plans for Houston clients to ensure everything stays current.
What happens to my home in Houston if I don’t have an estate plan?
If you pass away without a will or trust, your home may go through probate. The court will decide who inherits it based on Texas law. This process can delay the sale or transfer of the property. Estate planning helps ensure your home passes to your chosen beneficiaries without confusion.
Can I name a guardian for my children in my estate plan?
Yes. Parents in Houston often create or update their estate plan to choose who will care for their children if something unexpected happens. Naming a guardian prevents court disputes and ensures your child is placed with someone you trust.
Do I need a power of attorney in Texas?
Yes. Power of attorney documents allow someone you trust to make financial or medical decisions if you become unable to do so. Without these documents, your family may have to request a guardianship through the courts—an expensive and time-consuming process.
Can estate planning protect my small business in Houston?
Yes. Business owners can use estate planning tools to determine:
- Who will run the business
- How ownership transfers
- What happens if the owner becomes disabled or passes away
Attorney Nguyen helps Houston business owners protect their companies with buy-sell agreements, succession plans, and trust structures.
How much does estate planning cost in Houston?
Costs depend on the complexity of your situation and the documents needed. Many families choose a flat-fee package, while others require more detailed planning. Attorney Nguyen provides clear pricing before any work begins, so families know exactly what to expect.
Who should I contact for estate planning in Houston?
If you want to protect your property, create a will or trust, update your documents, or prepare for the future, Attorney Nhan Nguyen can guide you through the estate planning process with clarity and care.
📞 Contact Attorney Nhan Nguyen today for help with estate planning in Houston.