Several new laws went into effect in Texas on January 1, 2023, including changes to property tax collection, an expansion of the judicial branch, and an amendment to pollution standards. One of the laws, House Bill 3774, written by District 67 Representative Jeff Leach, allows for public access to the state’s court documents database with…
TX-LW Blogs
Innocent Spouse Can Benefit from Tax Savings
Innocent spouse relief is a complex and nuanced area of tax law that can be difficult to navigate. In order to successfully file a claim, one must have a thorough understanding of the rules and requirements. One example of this complexity is found in Section 6015(c), which does not require that the innocent spouse not……
The IRS OIC: How Lifestyle Choices Impact Your Offer
Owing back taxes to the IRS can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for many individuals. The financial burden of paying back a large tax debt can seem insurmountable, leaving taxpayers feeling hopeless and unsure of where to turn for help. One option that may provide relief for those struggling to pay their tax debt……
Tax Court: Is Diabetes is a Disability?
If you find yourself without a job or facing unemployment, one of the options you might consider is taking a distribution from your retirement account. This is especially true if you are disabled and need the income to pay for your living costs or even your medical care. These distributions often result in additional Federal……
Can Courts Alter Wills?
One of the key principles of wills and trusts law is that a will should be given effect as written, unless it is shown that the will was procured by fraud, duress, or undue influence. This principle, known as the “rule against perpetuities,” is based on the idea that a person’s wishes should be respected…
Do You Have to Hire a Probate Attorney in Texas?
Hiring a probate attorney in Texas is generally necessary when administering a probate estate. This is due to a combination of Texas law, which requires representation of the interests of beneficiaries and creditors, and the complexity of the state’s probate laws. In Texas, individuals have the right to represent themselves in legal proceedings, but this…
Does a Complex Estate Plan Mean a Lengthy Legal Battle?
Estate planning can be a contentious issue, especially when it comes to siblings. A recent article in the Houston Chronicle highlights the story of a man whose parents had a complex estate plan that led to a lengthy legal battle between him and his siblings. The man’s parents had owned a successful business and had…
How Do I Get a Guardianship in San Antonio?
Obtaining a guardianship in San Antonio, Texas can be a complex legal process. It involves petitioning the court to appoint you as the legal guardian of another person, known as the “ward.” This can be necessary when the ward is unable to make decisions for themselves due to age, disability, or some other circumstance. The…
Texas Probate Case Law: Free and Voluntary Act
The probate process in Texas is often long and complicated. It can involve many steps, most of which are unfamiliar to the average person. One of the most important steps in the process is the free and voluntary act. This step is so important that it has its own section in the Texas Estates Code.…