Estate Planning for Parents in Texas -Why Every Parent Needs an Estate Plan — Even If You Think You Have Time

Stephanie Fernald
May 11
3 min read

You’re Not Too Young. It’s Not Too Early. It’s Time.

Many Texas parents believe estate planning is something they’ll get to “someday.” But life has a way of disrupting even the best intentions. And when you have children, the stakes are simply too high to put it off.

If you have minor children or dependents, a comprehensive estate plan is one of the most important gifts you can give them. It’s not just about money — it’s about protection, peace of mind, and a clear plan if the unthinkable happens.

At BC Robertson Law, we help families build plans that protect their children, secure their assets, and provide clarity in moments of crisis.

What Happens If You Don’t Have an Estate Plan?

If you die or become incapacitated without a valid estate plan in Texas:

The court decides who raises your children
Your assets may go through probate, delaying access to funds your kids may need immediately
A stranger could be managing your money for your children
Your family could end up in conflict or court trying to guess what you would have wanted

This isn’t just about financial planning — it’s about family planning.

5 Reasons Every Parent in Texas Needs an Estate Plan

1. You Need to Name a Guardian for Your Children

If you have minor children, the most important reason to create a will is to name a legal guardian. This is the person who will care for your children if you and the other parent can’t.

⚠️ If you don’t name someone:

A judge decides based on limited information.
Multiple family members may step forward (or no one).
Your kids could be placed in temporary foster care while the court decides.

A well-drafted will ensures you choose who will raise your children — not the state.

2. You Need a Plan for Your Children’s Inheritance

If you leave assets to your children without a trust:

They will likely receive the entire inheritance at age 18.
A court-appointed guardian will control the funds in the meantime.
There is no guarantee the money will be managed wisely.

A revocable living trust allows you to:

Appoint someone you trust to manage funds
Specify how and when your kids receive money (e.g., 25% at age 25, 50% at 30)
Protect the money from misuse or outside claims

3. You Need to Plan for Medical and Financial Emergencies

If something happens to you — illness, injury, incapacity — who makes your medical or financial decisions?

With proper estate planning documents like:

Medical Power of Attorney
Durable Power of Attorney
HIPAA Authorization

...you stay in control of your future, and your family avoids legal headaches during a crisis.

4. You Need to Avoid Family Conflict

Clear estate plans = less confusion and fewer arguments.

Without a will or trust, families are left guessing:

Who should care for the kids?
What should happen to the house?
Who gets Grandma’s heirlooms?

The result? Hurt feelings, disputes, and sometimes litigation. A properly drafted estate plan leaves no questions.

5. You Need to Provide Immediate Access to Funds

Texas probate can take months. In the meantime, your family may be unable to:

Access your bank accounts
Sell or transfer your property
Use your life insurance benefits

A strategic plan ensures:

Beneficiary designations are in place
Trusts are funded
Assets are titled correctly So your family doesn’t have to wait on the court to get what they need.

It’s Not About Money. It’s About Peace of Mind.

You don’t have to be wealthy to need an estate plan. If you have children, own property, or want to make your own decisions about your future, estate planning is essential.

At BC Robertson Law, we make the process simple, compassionate, and affordable — starting with a $50 consultation.

Start Protecting Your Children Today

Here’s how it works:

📝 Step 1: Complete our simple intake form 📅 Step 2: Schedule your $50 phone consultation 📜 Step 3: Get the legal protection your family needs