McCreary Law Office

Business Details

Estate Planning and Probate Services in Houston, TX

At McCreary Law Office, we specialize in estate planning and probate services, providing personalized legal solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. With over two decades of experience as an attorney, our founder combines deep expertise in estate law with a compassionate approach to client relationships. We focus on creating comprehensive plans that protect assets, ensure healthcare directives, and provide for loved ones, including minors and individuals with special needs.

Our practice emphasizes clarity, trust, and proactive planning to avoid probate complexities and safeguard family legacies. We offer remote consultations and flexible meeting options to accommodate busy schedules while maintaining a commitment to transparency, ethical standards, and client education.

Services

Estate Planning Wills Trusts Probate Special Needs Planning Pet Trusts Health Care Directives Durable Powers of Attorney Planning for Minor Children

Highlights and features

We offer over 20 years of specialized experience in estate planning and probate law.
Our personalized approach ensures plans address unique family and financial circumstances.
We provide remote consultations and flexible meeting options for client convenience.
Our practice emphasizes transparency, ethical standards, and comprehensive client education.
We specialize in complex planning for special needs, blended families, and pet trusts.

What people say

Peace of mind Professional and compassionate Knowledgeable and patient Streamlined probate process Excellent communication

Website

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Services

Estate Planning

Our estate planning services create comprehensive strategies to protect assets and ensure your wishes are honored. We develop customized plans addressing wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and power of attorney arrangements. Our approach considers family dynamics, tax implications, and long-term care needs while maintaining compliance with evolving legal standards. We educate clients about options and help implement solutions that minimize administrative burdens for loved ones.

Probate Services

We guide executors through Texas probate processes with clear, efficient support. Our services include asset inventory, debt settlement, tax filings, and distribution guidance while navigating court requirements. We help families understand timelines, resolve disputes, and fulfill legal obligations. Our experience with independent administrations and small estate affidavits ensures cost-effective solutions while maintaining compliance with state-specific procedures for both contested and uncontested matters.

Special Needs Planning

Our special needs planning creates protective frameworks preserving government benefit eligibility. We establish trusts that provide supplemental care without jeopardizing Medicaid or SSI access. Services include assessing current and future care requirements, structuring trust provisions, and coordinating with existing estate plans. We help families understand trustee responsibilities and implement safeguards ensuring funds are used appropriately for beneficiaries' ongoing well-being and quality of life.

Pet Trusts

Pet trusts ensure lifelong care for companion animals through legally enforceable arrangements. We help establish funding mechanisms, designate caretakers, and create detailed care instructions. Our plans address veterinary needs, daily care routines, and contingency arrangements while complying with Texas-specific trust requirements. We work with clients to determine appropriate funding levels and structure provisions that adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining enforceable protections for animal welfare.

Health Care Directives

We create comprehensive healthcare directives including living wills and medical powers of attorney. Our documents specify treatment preferences, end-of-life care instructions, and HIPAA authorizations while designating trusted decision-makers. Services include explaining legal options, documenting personal values, and ensuring enforceability across jurisdictions. We help clients understand implications of different directives and implement coordinated plans that align with overall estate strategies and family communication needs.

People

Jana R. McCreary

Attorney

Jana R. McCreary has practiced law for over 20 years, specializing in estate planning and probate. Prior to law practice, she worked with individuals with disabilities, influencing her focus on special needs planning. She graduated summa cum laude and brings extensive experience in creating personalized legal solutions.

Mirella Beard

Receptionist

Mirella Beard serves as the firm's receptionist, managing client communications and administrative operations. She provides organizational support while maintaining the office's day-to-day functions.

Cherisse Krieger

Client Services Coordinator

Cherisse Krieger coordinates client services, guiding clients through planning processes and supporting attorney operations. She assists with discovery calls and ensures smooth client experiences throughout legal proceedings.

Questions

What estate planning documents are essential for most adults?

Every adult should have a will, durable power of attorney, healthcare directive, and living will to ensure comprehensive coverage of asset distribution and healthcare decisions.

How can I avoid probate in Texas?

Revocable living trusts, joint ownership with rights of survivorship, and designated beneficiaries on accounts help avoid probate while maintaining asset control.

Can I create a legally valid will without an attorney?

While possible, DIY wills often contain errors that create complications. Our attorneys ensure proper execution and alignment with Texas-specific legal requirements.

What happens if I die without a will in Texas?

Texas intestacy laws determine asset distribution, typically prioritizing spouses and children. This may not align with personal wishes and can create administrative burdens for families.

How do special needs trusts protect government benefit eligibility?

Special needs trusts hold assets for beneficiaries without disqualifying them from needs-based programs like Medicaid or SSI, ensuring continued financial support and care.

What distinguishes your estate planning approach?

We combine legal expertise with personalized guidance, focusing on long-term family needs, tax implications, and protection strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances.