Dear Mr. Premack: My mother was an only child. She died in 1992, survived by her elderly parents. Her mother later died in 2001 and her father died in 2004. I assumed that under Texas law that the grandchildren would receive the grandparents’ estate. Though this started without my knowledge, I have recently discovered that my grandfather’s sister has claimed that she is the rightful heir and has filed paperwork to place all his property in her name. Since my grandparents died

Dear Mr. Premack: My friend’s mother deeded her several properties years ago, while my friend was (and still is) married. The properties are free and clear of any mortgages and do not have any liens. The Special Warranty Deed states with love and affection and other good valuable consideration. Is this considered inheritance and separate property or something else? No money was ever exchanged during this transaction. My friend’s mother has since passed and my friend is concer

Dear Mr. Premack: My question concerns the Lady Bird deed. I have read your previous columns about this. I own a home that my wife of 57 years and I built. She died 5 years ago, and I remarried 3 years ago.  I plan to deed this property to my children using the Lady Bird. Does the law concerning widows give any rights to my current wife? It is my separate property. – J.H.H. When a married couple purchases or builds a home using funds earned during the marriage, that home is t