At Duffley Law, we help Texans take control of the future with wills that meet all the requirements of the Texas Estates Code and reflect your wishes clearly.
If you want to secure guardianship for minor children, protect a blended family, or make sure your property is passed down smoothly, we guide you through each step with clarity and care.
Most Texans put off creating a will, but the consequences of waiting can be costly. According to a Caring.com survey, nearly two out of three Americans do not have a will. In Houston, that often leaves families relying on the courts to decide who inherits, a process that can create delays and disputes at an already difficult time.
What Is a Will Under Texas Law?
A will is a legal document that explains how your property should be distributed after your death. In Texas, a valid will must be written, signed, and witnessed according to the Texas Estates Code. When properly executed, it gives you control over what happens to your estate instead of leaving those decisions to the court.
Texas law also allows you to deposit your will with the county clerk for safekeeping. This provides families with additional peace of mind, knowing the original will is on file and protected from loss or tampering.
A will in Texas can address several important matters, including:
- Who inherits your home, financial accounts, and personal property
- Appointment of a guardian for minor children
- Directions for how debts and taxes should be handled
- Naming an executor to manage your estate and carry out your wishes
Without a legally valid will, your estate will be distributed under Texas intestacy laws, which may not reflect your personal wishes. For many families, this creates avoidable disputes and costly court involvement.
Our Will Services in Texas
- Last Wills and Testaments
- Trusts
- Advanced Directives (“Living Wills”)
- Pour-Over Wills
- Mutual or Mirror Wills
- Holographic Wills
- Joint Wills
- Guardianship and Beneficiary Designation
- Will Review and Updates
- Executor Guidance
- Probate Avoidance Strategies
Why Texas Families Choose Duffley Law
Texas Estate Law Focus
Our wills are crafted to meet every requirement of the Texas Estates Code, making sure your plan stands up in any court.
Personalized Guidance
We take time to understand your goals, family, and assets, no templates, just tailored solutions.
Clarity and Confidence
You’ll understand every step and clause, with clear explanations instead of legal jargon.
Ongoing Support
As your life changes, we help you update your will so it always reflects your wishes.
Local Experience, Compassionate Care
Serving Houston and surrounding communities, we offer practical legal insight with genuine care for Texas families.
Our Client Process in Texas
Creating a will does not need to be overwhelming. Our firm guides you through each step with clear explanations and practical advice so that you feel confident your wishes are properly documented.
When you work with us, here is what you can expect:
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We begin by listening. You share your goals, concerns, and family situation, and we explain the options available under Texas law.
Step 2: Drafting Your Will
We prepare a customized will that reflects your wishes. This may include naming beneficiaries, appointing guardians for minor children, and selecting an executor to carry out your instructions.
Step 3: Review and Adjustments
We go through the draft with you carefully. Every clause is explained in plain language, and changes are made until you are comfortable with the document.
Step 4: Execution and Witnessing
We help you complete the signing process correctly so that your will is legally valid in Texas. This includes confirming proper witnessing and notarization where needed.
Step 5: Safe Storage and Updates
You will know how to keep your will safe and when to revisit it. As life changes, we remain available to update your documents so they always reflect your current circumstances.
Types of Wills We Draft in Texas
Not every family has the same needs, which is why we offer different types of wills tailored to your circumstances. Understanding the options helps you choose the right plan for your situation.
Simple Will
A simple will is best for individuals or families with straightforward estates. It covers property distribution, guardianship for minor children, and naming an executor.
Living Will (Advance Directive)
A living will outlines your medical treatment preferences if you cannot speak for yourself. It makes sure doctors and family members know your wishes regarding life-sustaining care.
Pour-Over Will
Often used with a living trust, a pour-over will transfers any remaining assets into your trust at death. This helps simplify administration and confirms all property is handled consistently.
Testamentary Trust Will
This type of will creates a trust that becomes effective after your death. It is especially useful for families with young children, dependents with special needs, or blended families.
Holographic and Oral Wills
Texas recognizes handwritten wills that meet certain requirements, but they are more likely to be contested. Oral wills have very limited recognition and are rarely practical. We help you avoid these risks by drafting a will that fully complies with Texas law.
Who Needs a Will in Texas
Every adult in Texas can benefit from having a will. Without one, your estate is distributed under state intestacy laws, which often creates results you may not want. Families in Harris County and across Houston see this first-hand when property or assets are tied up in probate because no valid will exists.
A will is especially important if you are in any of these groups:
- Parents with Minor Children
Naming a guardian makes sure your children are cared for by the people you trust, not decided by the court. - Blended Families
If you have children from a previous marriage or relationship, a will helps you provide for them fairly and prevent conflicts between family members. - Business Owners and Professionals
In Houston, many clients own businesses or receive complex compensation packages from employers like Google or major energy companies. A will helps decide how ownership or equity is handled after death. - Homeowners and Real Estate Investors
Families in high-value neighborhoods such as River Oaks or West University Place often hold property worth millions. A will confirms those assets pass smoothly to the right heirs. - Retirees and Seniors
A will simplifies matters for your children and grandchildren and prevents avoidable disputes during probate.
Local Resources We Work With in Texas
At Duffley Law, we collaborate with trusted Texas institutions to make sure your will is properly prepared, executed, and filed.
- County Clerk Offices – For safe will deposits, including Harris, Travis, Dallas, and Bexar County Clerks.
- Probate Courts – Guidance through Harris County Probate Courts 1–4 and other county courts statewide.
- Vital Records – Assistance with documents from the Texas Department of State Health Services (Vital Statistics Unit).
- Financial & Estate Advisors – Coordination with TXCPA members and fiduciary planners to align your will with financial goals.
- Guardianship & Elder Services – Partnerships with Texas HHS Guardianship Program and AGE of Central Texas for families with dependents or seniors.
- Notary & Witness Support – Access to notaries and mobile witnessing across Houston, Dallas, and Austin.
Schedule a Consultation
If you do not yet have a will, now is the time to act. Our firm helps Texans create legally sound wills that protect families, simplify probate, and prevent costly disputes.
We serve clients across Houston and Harris County, including River Oaks, West University Place, Memorial, and surrounding communities. Call us or fill out our contact form for a confidential consultation.