Wills, Trusts & Estates — San Antonio Attorney
Estate planning is one of the most important legal steps any adult can take — and one of the most commonly delayed. A will, a power of attorney, and a healthcare directive are not just for the elderly or the wealthy. They are for anyone who has assets to protect, family to provide for, or decisions to be made.
The Metyko Law Firm handles estate planning and probate matters with the same directness and practical focus we bring to every legal matter. No unnecessary complexity. No one-size-fits-all documents. Plans that reflect your actual wishes and protect the people you care about.
Estate Planning Services
- Last Will and Testament
- Revocable Living Trusts
- Durable Power of Attorney
- Medical Power of Attorney
- Directive to Physicians (Living Will)
- Declaration of Guardian
- Transfer-on-Death Deeds
- Beneficiary designations review
- Estate plan review and updates
Probate in Texas
Texas has a relatively streamlined probate process compared to many other states, but it still requires navigating the court system, managing creditor claims, and distributing assets correctly. We handle both independent and dependent administrations, muniment of title proceedings, and small estate affidavits where applicable.
Why You Need an Estate Plan Now
Without a will in Texas, your assets pass according to the state's intestacy laws — which may not reflect your wishes at all. Without a power of attorney, your family may need a costly and time-consuming guardianship proceeding if you become incapacitated. Without a healthcare directive, medical decisions may be made by people who don't know what you would want.
These documents take a few hours to prepare and can prevent years of family conflict and legal expense.
Does Texas have an estate tax?
No. Texas has no state estate tax or inheritance tax. Federal estate tax applies to estates above the federal exemption threshold (currently over $12 million per individual), so the vast majority of Texas estates owe no estate tax at all.
What happens if I die without a will in Texas?
Your estate passes under Texas intestacy law, which follows a fixed formula based on family relationships. If you are married with children from a prior relationship, the results may surprise you. The formula rarely matches what most people actually want.
Do I need a trust, or is a will enough?
For most people with straightforward estates, a well-drafted will with proper beneficiary designations is sufficient. Trusts are useful when you want to avoid probate, have minor children, own real estate in multiple states, or have specific conditions on inheritance. We can assess your situation and recommend the appropriate approach.