Many are surprised that financial powers of attorney do not have to be recognized by others including banks and other financial institutions. If the principal (the one who signs the power of attorney) becomes incompetent and the one who is presented with and asked to...
Recent research indicates a change in speech such as more pauses, verbal changes, and filler words could be a signal of early mild cognitive impairment. If this study is accurate (and it is the largest one done for this purpose), it could be an...
As of September 1, 2017, it will be easier in Texas to transfer the title of motor vehicles on an owner’s death. Similar to the Transfer on Death Deed law passed in the state legislative session two years ago whereby real estate can be transferred...
According to preliminary research results, computer apps on i-Pads and other electronic devices could help those with Alzheimer’s disease and those inflicted with other forms of dementia who often become agitated as a result of the disease. Previously it has been determined that art therapy,...
Did you ever hear of a story where there was no access to electronic pictures or Facebook or have access to an online bank account of a loved one who has died or become mentally disabled? On June 1, 2017, Governor Abbott signed into law...
Do you think the state legislature will pass laws that may change your existing estate planning documents? Do you think there may be tax reform? Do you think culture may change through changes in electronic communication or social media which may be considered a digital asset? Do you...
On May 22, 2017, Governor Abbott signed a new law which allows a trust to be reformed if necessary or appropriate to achieve the tax objectives of the one who created the trust (the “trustor”) or to qualify a beneficiary for governmental benefits and is...
As an elder law attorney, it may be surprising to clients that many of our referrals come from estate planning attorneys since most have limited knowledge regarding public benefits. Many are shocked that there are over 40 Medicaid programs (each with their own rules) in...
The Texas Senate has passed a bill (which has been sent to the Texas House) to facilitate the design and development of a Medicaid block grant waiver so that there would be a continuation of joint funding by the federal and state governments while allowing...
Congressional Republicans and Democrats have come to a bipartisan agreement on a historic increase of $400 million in Alzheimer’s research at a time when the government is looking for ways to cut expenses. This shows that Congress feels that significant progress has been made and...
