Houston Estate Planning Attorney - Whitney L. Thompson

From The Law Office of Whitney L. Thompson, PLLC - Houston Estate Planning Attorney explains how families can protect their assets, plan for incapacity, and secure their legacy under Texas law. In this episode, Whitney L. Thompson, Esq. shares how thoughtful estate planning helps Houston residents avoid probate delays, minimize court involvement, and ensure their wishes are honored. Listeners will gain clarity on wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance directives while learning how Texas intestacy laws can determine outcomes when no plan is in place.

Drawing on her foundation at Thurgood Marshall School of Law and her work with the Harris County Probate Courts, Whitney L. Thompson walks through essential estate planning documents recognized under Texas Estates Code § 251.051 and § 251.052, including written and holographic wills. The conversation highlights the differences between wills and living trusts, how beneficiary designations impact retirement accounts and life insurance policies, and why documents like a Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates and durable financial powers of attorney are critical safeguards for families across Harris County and the Greater Houston area.

The episode also explores planning strategies for families with unique needs, including the creation of a Special Needs Trust (SNT) to protect eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Listeners will learn how Medicaid planning works in Texas, including asset limits, the five-year look-back period, and tools such as the Qualified Income Trust (QIT), also known as a Miller Trust. Special attention is given to long-term care preparation, guardianship considerations, and strategies that help preserve assets for spouses and children.

Serving clients throughout Brazoria County, Fort Bend County, Harris County, Matagorda County, Montgomery County, and Wharton County, The Law Office of Whitney L. Thompson, PLLC provides guidance tailored to each family’s circumstances. Located at 4201 FM 1960 Road West, Suite 360, Houston, Texas, the firm assists with estate planning, probate, guardianship, and elder law matters. To take the next step in protecting your family’s future, call (281) 214-0173 to schedule a consultation.

The Law Office of Whitney L. Thompson, PLLC

4201 Farm to Market 1960 Rd W Suite 360, Box #116B, Houston, TX 77068, United States

(281) 214-0173

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