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  Hogarth Law Firm, PLLC 
Austin, Texas 
 (512) 850-6439
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Preparation of a robust estate plan involves more than just a will.  It includes additional documents that enable your trusted friends and family to act on your behalf if the need arises.  The Hogarth Law Firm, PLLC, provides a full array of services to help ensure that your wishes are properly carried out.

An estate plan includes several documents:

1. A Will:  A will speaks for you when you are no longer able to speak for yourself.  Without a will, the State of Texas will distribute your assets according to state law (distribution chart).   A will also lets you appoint a person to administer your estate and a guardian for your children, easing what can be a stressful process for loved ones.

2. Trusts:  Trusts are particularly useful if you have minor children or incapacitated beneficiaries who are unable to make their own financial decisions. Trusts can also be used for tax planning purposes in larger estates.  A trust can either be created to take effect after your passing or during your lifetime, depending on your needs.

3. Powers of Attorney:  Through a power of attorney, you give someone you trust the authority to act on your behalf in financial or medical matters. This helps to ensure efficient and timely administration of your affairs.

4. HIPAA Authorization:  A HIPAA authorization allows a named party to have access to your medical records, helping them cut through a lot of the red tape imposed on medical providers by today's disclosure laws.

5. Living Will (Directive to Physician):  A living will allows you to make a decision in advance as to how you want life-sustaining medical treatment administered. 

6. Declaration of Guardian:  The declaration supplements your Powers of Attorney, ensuring that the Court will appoint the person you choose as your guardian should you need one. 

7. Appointment of Agent to Control Disposition of Remains:  The designation allows you to communicate to your loved ones how you would like your remains handled and to give them the authority to do as you have requested.                     
   

Having a plan for your estate not only communicates your desires and wishes to those around you, but just as importantly, it helps the individuals involved in the administration of your property to more effectively carry out your wishes.