American Estate Planning Series
Texas Estate Planning
State-specific guidance, videos, and resources to help you plan with clarity and confidence under Texas law.
A Simple Path to Texas Estate Planning
A simple, Texas-specific path to learning the basics, organizing your information, and working with an estate planning attorney when you are ready.
1. Learn the Basics
Short, clear explanations of Texas estate planning concepts.
2. Understand Texas Differences
Key Texas rules such as durable powers of attorney, transfer-on-death deeds, community property, and probate procedures.
3. Organize Your Information
Use tools like the Estate Planning Starter Workbook to organize assets, beneficiaries, and planning goals.
4. Get Professional Guidance
When you're ready, work with a Texas estate planning attorney to design a plan that fits your family and Texas law.
What Makes Texas Estate Planning Different
Texas estate planning has its own rules, terminology, and planning considerations. Before choosing documents or working with an attorney, it helps to understand how Texas law approaches wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and probate.
Key Texas Estate Planning Concepts
Community Property System – Texas law distinguishes between community and separate property, which directly impacts ownership and planning strategies
Probate Alternatives – Tools like beneficiary designations, transfer-on-death deeds, and trusts are often used to simplify or avoid probate
Homestead Protections – Texas provides strong protections for primary residences that influence planning decisions
Incapacity Planning Documents – Powers of attorney and medical directives must be properly structured and executed under Texas law
Flexible Planning Options – Texas allows for a range of trust and non-trust strategies depending on goals and complexity
Meet Your Texas Estate Planning Attorney
Jared Norton
Texas Contributing Attorney
American Estate Planning Series
Norton Law, PLLC
North Texas
📞 (972) 736-8594
Meet Jared Norton
Jared Norton is the Texas Contributing Attorney for the American Estate Planning Series™, providing state-specific guidance to help Texas residents make informed estate planning decisions.
Based in North Texas, Jared works with individuals and families to design estate plans that reflect their goals, protect what they have built, and provide clarity for those they leave behind. His approach combines precision, thoughtful planning, and a strong understanding of how Texas law shapes estate planning strategies.
Before focusing his practice on estate planning, Jared spent years representing businesses and professionals in complex matters, developing the analytical and detail-oriented approach he now brings to estate planning. He applies that experience to help clients navigate important decisions with confidence and care.
Texas Estate Planning Videos
Start with these estate planning videos to understand the key concepts and how they apply under Texas law. Foundational topics are followed by Texas-specific guidance to help you make informed planning decisions.
Do You Need a Will or a Trust in Texas?
Who Should Be Your Executor in Texas?
How Probate Works in Texas (And Why a Will Matters)
Dying Without a Will in Texas: What Happens Next?
Choose Your Next Step
Whether you are just beginning to learn about estate planning or preparing to meet with an attorney, here are the best places to start.
Watch Videos - Start With the Basics
If you are new to estate planning, begin with Texas videos explaining wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and probate.
Download the Workbook - Get Organized First
Download the Estate Planning Workbook to gather your financial information and think through key planning decisions.
Find an Attorney - Work With an Attorney
When you are ready for legal advice or estate planning documents, connect with a Texas-licensed estate planning attorney.
Texas Estate Planning Resources
Explore more Texas-specific videos, answers to common questions, and additional resources.
This page is part of the American Estate Planning Series, providing clear estate planning guidance across all 50 states.