What Do I Need in a Basic Estate Plan?

 Posted on August 27, 2025 in Estate Planning

If you live in Texas and do not yet have an estate plan, you are not alone. Many young parents, professionals, and even established families delay estate planning because they believe it is only for the wealthy or elderly.

In reality, a basic estate plan is important for anyone who wants to protect their family, control what happens to their property, and avoid unnecessary legal hurdles in the future. With 20 years of experience in private practice, our San Antonio wills and trusts attorneys can help you get started on a smart estate plan that protects your family and your values. 

Why Start an Estate Plan Now?

Life is unpredictable. Without an estate plan, Texas probate law decides what happens to your assets and who will care for your children if something happens to you. That can create stress, legal costs, and even disputes among your loved ones. Taking the time to put a plan in place gives you control and provides your family with clarity during a difficult time.

What Goes Into a Basic Estate Plan in Texas?

A basic estate plan in Texas usually includes a few key documents that cover different parts of your life:

Last Will and Testament

A will lets you decide who inherits your property and, if you have young children, who will serve as their guardian. Without a will, Texas intestacy laws determine these issues, and the outcome may not reflect your wishes.

Durable Power of Attorney

This document allows a trusted person to manage your financial matters if you are unable to do so yourself. This can include the authority to pay your bills, manage your accounts, or handle your business interests.

Medical Power of Attorney

With this in place, someone you choose can make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become too sick or injured to do so on your own.

Directive to Physicians (Living Will)

This outlines your preferences for end-of-life medical care, such as whether you want life-sustaining treatment in certain situations.

Appointment of Guardian for Minor Children

Parents can formally state who should raise their children if both parents are unable to do so. This is one of the most important steps for young families.

Who Needs a Basic Estate Plan?

A basic estate plan is important for people at many different stages of life:

• Young parents should plan ahead to name guardians for their children and make sure financial resources are managed for their benefit.

• Mid-level professionals can protect growing assets like homes, retirement accounts, and investments, while also making sure someone can act on their behalf if they are incapacitated.

• Couples without children can still benefit by deciding who inherits their property and ensuring medical and financial decisions are made by someone they trust.

In every case, having these documents in place reduces uncertainty and protects your loved ones from avoidable court processes.

How to Get Started on Your First Estate Plan

The first step is to think through your priorities. Consider who you would want to make decisions for you if you cannot, who you trust to raise your children, and how you would like your property to be distributed. Once you have thought through these questions, meeting with an estate planning attorney in San Antonio can help you turn those ideas into legally valid documents that comply with Texas law.

Contact a San Antonio, TX Estate Planning Attorney for Families and Young Professionals

Creating a basic estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and your future. At The Law Office of Ryan C. Moe, PLLC, our San Antonio estate planning lawyer works with individuals and families to draft wills, powers of attorney, and other essential documents. We have 20 years of experience in our private practice and outstanding testimonials from happy clients. Call 210-861-6000 today to learn how we can help you get started with an estate plan that gives you peace of mind.