Frequently Asked Questions
Let us help you answer foundational questions about Estate Planning, Business Law, and working with an attorney in general. If you have any further questions, reach out today to schedule a consultation.
Estate Planning
Business Law
Estate planning is the process of organizing how your assets, responsibilities, and healthcare decisions will be managed if you become incapacitated or pass away. Even if you don't consider yourself wealthy, estate planning ensures your loved ones aren't left making difficult decisions during an already emotional time. It provides clarity, protects your family, and ensures your wishes are honored.
A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death and goes through probate court in Texas. A trust, on the other hand, can help you avoid probate, provide privacy, and offer more control over when and how your assets are distributed. Many Austin families benefit from having both as part of a comprehensive estate plan.
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate, including validating the will, paying debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. In Texas, probate typically takes six months to a year or longer depending on the complexity of the estate. Working with an experienced probate attorney in Austin can help streamline the process and reduce stress for your family.
A power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to designate someone to make financial or legal decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. Without one, your family may need to go to court to gain authority over your affairs. Powers of attorney are essential components of any estate plan in Texas.
You should review your estate plan every three to five years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, significant asset changes, or moving to a new state. Texas laws and your personal circumstances change over time, so keeping your plan current ensures it continues to reflect your wishes.
The right business structure depends on your goals, liability concerns, tax situation, and management preferences. Common options in Texas include sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations. We help you evaluate which structure aligns best with your business needs and long-term objectives.
An LLC (limited liability company) offers liability protection with simpler management requirements and pass-through taxation. A corporation provides liability protection but has more formal requirements, including a board of directors and shareholders. Corporations may offer tax advantages for certain businesses. We help Austin business owners understand which structure makes sense for their specific situation.
While you can technically file LLC formation documents yourself with the Texas Secretary of State, working with a business attorney ensures your operating agreement, ownership structure, and compliance requirements are handled correctly from the start. Proper formation protects your personal assets and prevents costly issues down the road.
Business contracts create legally binding obligations. An attorney reviews contracts to identify unfavorable terms, unclear language, missing provisions, and potential liability issues before you sign. Whether it's a vendor agreement, lease, or employment contract, legal review protects your Austin business from costly disputes and misunderstandings.
Transactional real estate services involve the legal aspects of buying, selling, or leasing commercial property. This includes reviewing purchase agreements, negotiating lease terms, conducting due diligence, and ensuring proper title transfer. For Austin businesses involved in real estate transactions, having legal guidance ensures your interests are protected throughout the process.
Working with Gravis Law Texas
Choosing the right attorney involves considering their experience in your specific area of need, their communication style, and whether they take time to understand your unique situation. Look for an attorney who explains things clearly, answers your questions patiently, and makes you feel comfortable. At Gravis Law, we prioritize building collaborative relationships with our Austin clients and ensuring you feel confident and informed throughout the legal process.
- For estate planning, bring information about your assets, beneficiaries, and any existing estate planning documents.
- For business law matters, bring relevant contracts, formation documents, or materials related to your legal question.
Don't worry if you don't have everything; we'll guide you through what we need during our conversation.
Contact our office to discuss consultation options and scheduling. We're happy to answer questions about our services and how we can help with your estate planning or business law needs in Austin.
At Gravis Law, we take a collaborative, straightforward approach to legal services. We believe in clear communication, taking time to understand your unique circumstances, and empowering you to make informed decisions. You're not just a case number, you're working with an attorney who genuinely cares about helping you achieve your goals and protecting what matters most.
Getting started is simple. Contact Gravis Law today to schedule a consultation. We'll discuss your needs, answer your questions, and develop a plan to address your estate planning or business law matters. We're here to provide the guidance and support you need to move forward with confidence.