Estate Planning for Parents in Texas: Protecting Your Children’s Future Today
- Stephanie Fernald
- Jun 11
- 3 min read
Being a parent means thinking ahead—planning for doctor visits, school, sports schedules, and even college. But there’s one plan that’s just as important and often overlooked: your estate plan.
If you have minor children, estate planning isn’t just about money—it’s about protection, peace of mind, and preparing for the unexpected.
At BC Robertson Law, we help Texas parents create clear, legally sound estate plans that ensure their children are cared for, no matter what.
Why Estate Planning Matters So Much for Parents
Imagine this: something happens to you, and the people you love most are left without direction. No clear guardianship. No access to your accounts. No instructions for what comes next.
Here’s what could happen in Texas if you don’t have a plan:
The court chooses who raises your children
Assets are tied up in probate for months or even years
A stranger could be appointed to manage your children’s inheritance
Family members may end up fighting in court over decisions
Without a will, trust, and powers of attorney, your children are left vulnerable.
4 Essentials Every Texas Parent Should Include in Their Estate Plan
✅ 1. Last Will & Testament with Guardian Designations
Your will is the only legal place where you can name a guardian for your minor children. Without it, a judge will make the decision, and it may not reflect your wishes or your child’s best interests.
Include:
A primary and backup guardian
Clear instructions about your parenting values
Specific exclusions if you don’t want certain individuals to be considered
✅ 2. Revocable Living Trust
A trust allows you to pass assets to your children without probate, and control how and when they receive those assets.
Why this matters:
Minors can’t legally manage money
A trust lets you appoint someone you trust to manage funds until your children reach a responsible age
You can set conditions for distribution (e.g., 50% at 25, remainder at 30)
✅ 3. Medical & Financial Powers of Attorney
Estate planning isn’t just for after death—it also prepares for incapacity.
If you’re in a car accident or become seriously ill, someone needs to step in and make medical or financial decisions on your behalf.
Parents should have:
Medical Power of Attorney
Durable (Financial) Power of Attorney
HIPAA Authorization
These documents keep your family out of court and in control during a crisis.
✅ 4. Letter of Intent or Parenting Wishes
While not legally binding, a letter of intent provides your chosen guardian with guidance about your values, routines, and hopes for your children’s future.
Think of it as a parenting manual—one that gives peace of mind and continuity during a difficult time.
When to Start Planning? Right Now.
We often hear, “We’ll do it after the baby is born,” or “Maybe once the kids are older.”
But life is unpredictable, and waiting too long could leave your children unprotected.
Whether you’re expecting your first child or managing a busy household, estate planning is one of the most important gifts you can give your family.
How BC Robertson Law Helps Parents Protect What Matters Most
We specialize in creating thoughtful, comprehensive estate plans for families in Dallas, Fort Worth, and across Texas.
✅ Personalized plans that fit your family’s structure
✅ Guardian designations, trusts for minors, POAs, and more
✅ Flat-fee pricing and a compassionate approach
📌 Don’t leave your children’s future up to chance.
📅 Book your $50 estate planning consultation with BC Robertson Law today and let’s build a plan that gives you peace of mind and gives your kids the protection they deserve.
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