A 2025 study from the Pew Research Center shows that only three in ten adults in the United States have created a will. Many people assume they need significant assets before starting the estate planning process, but creating a will serves as the primary way to ensure your specific wishes are followed after death.
Without a will, Texas law dictates how your property is distributed and who cares for your minor children. This process often involves probate, a court-managed procedure that can become expensive and time-consuming for your survivors. Even if your estate is modest, having a clear legal plan reduces the burden on your family during a period of grief and transition.
Michelle Alden, an attorney and director of the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program, notes that major life milestones such as marriage, purchasing a home, or having children are logical times to establish or update a will. Beyond simple asset distribution, an estate plan should ideally include medical directives and powers of attorney to ensure your preferences are honored regarding end-of-life care if you are unable to speak for yourself.
While handwritten wills are technically possible in Texas, they carry risks if they fail to meet specific legal requirements. Working with an attorney remains the safest path to ensure your document is enforceable. For low-income residents in Dallas County, resources exist to help navigate this process without the high cost of private legal counsel.
The Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program holds regular legal clinics, and organizations such as The Senior Source offer specialized support for eligible individuals. Those who do not qualify for pro bono assistance can find standardized forms and educational resources through the Texas State Law Library and other nonprofit legal aid portals.