Probate is the legal process of transferring of property upon a person’s death. Although probate customs and laws have changed over time, the purpose has remained much the same: people formalize their intentions as to the transfer of their property at the time of their death (typically in a will), their property is collected, certain debts are paid from the …
What is a Trust?
A trust is used to determine how a person’s money should be managed and distributed while that person is alive, or after their death. A trust helps avoid taxes and probate. It can protect assets from creditors, and it can dictate the terms of an inheritance for beneficiaries. The disadvantages of trusts are that they require time and money to …
Why do I Need a Last Will and Testament?
A Last Will and Testament (also referred to as a “Last Will” or simply a “Will”) is a formal way of setting forth your wishes regarding how you would like your property distributed upon your death. You should consider creating a Last Will and Testament whether you are single, married, have minor children, or own even a small amount of …
Passing Your Assets to Family Members Through Estate Planning
An estate is the real and/or personal property a person possesses at death. Estate planning involves the drafting of living wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and other documents to facilitate the transfer and management of property after death. When someone dies without a will, their possessions will be distributed to their next of kin. By not making a will or …
What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that limits the behavior and actions of third-party debt collectors who are attempting to collect debts on behalf of another person or entity. The law restricts the means and methods by which collectors can contact debtors, as well as the time of day and number of times contact can …
Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Consumer Protection Act (DTPA)
The underlying purpose of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Consumer Protection Act (DTPA) is to protect consumers against false, misleading, and deceptive business practices, unconscionable actions, and breaches of warranty and to provide efficient and economical procedures to secure such protection. Unlawful Acts Under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Consumer Protection Act include: Breach of Warranty: This statute is invoked …
The Importance of Signing a Contract
A contract is basically an agreement between two parties creating a legal obligation for both of them to perform specific acts. Each party is legally bound to perform the specified duties such as rendering a payment or delivering goods. A contract may be used for various transactions, including the sale of land or goods, or the provision of services. They may …
What is a Construction Lien?
We have all heard of the term “lien”, but few people (including lawyers) can explain their meaning and significance. At The Law Offices of Cesar A. Montalvo, we explain it as a “a legal security” for payment. A lien is proscribed by statute (enacted by our legislature) or in equity (provided by common-law principles). In Texas, both our Constitution and …
Is DUI and DWI the Same Charge?
DUI and DWI are usually defined as driving under the influence or driving while impaired by alcohol or other legal or illegal substances. A DUI law may prohibit driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, driving under the influence of a drug, and driving under the combined influence of an alcoholic beverage and any drug (legal or illegal), regardless …
