Legal tools to make sure the people who matter most are recognized—no matter what.
In many LGBTQ+ communities, chosen family is more than just a term—it’s a lifeline. These are the people who support us, celebrate with us, and stand by us, even when our biological or legal families can’t—or won’t.
But here’s the hard truth:
🛑 The law doesn’t automatically recognize chosen family.
Without legal protections in place, those closest to you might be left out of critical decisions during emergencies or after death.
That’s why estate planning is so important—especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and nontraditional families.
💡 Why Legal Protection Matters
If you don’t have an estate plan in place, the Texas Legislature makes one for you—and you’re not going to like it. That plan typically favors legal relationships and blood relatives.
Imagine:
A longtime partner being denied hospital access.
A best friend unable to make medical decisions on your behalf.
Chosen family being completely cut out of your estate.
These aren’t just possibilities— it’s the law without you taking steps to protect them. They’re realities we’ve seen happen. But they don’t have to be your story.
🛠️ The 7 Essential Estate Planning Documents
Will
Designates who inherits your property and possessions. You can include anyone—not just legal relatives.
Without a will, state laws decide—and chosen family members are usually left out.
Durable Power of Attorney (Financial)
Grants someone you trust (a friend, partner, etc.) the authority to manage your finances if you become incapacitated.
Without it, courts may appoint someone you wouldn’t choose.
Statutory Power of Attorney
A standardized Texas form that allows you to appoint someone to handle a wide range of financial and legal matters on your behalf—immediately or only if you become incapacitated.
It’s a flexible tool that can be tailored to fit your needs, and it’s legally recognized across the state.
Medical Power of Attorney
Allows someone you designate to make medical decisions on your behalf if you can’t. This is especially important in hospital settings that default to next-of-kin rules.
HIPAA Authorization Form
Authorizes your chosen loved ones to access your medical records and communicate with healthcare providers.
Pro tip: Pair this with your Medical POA for complete protection.
Living Will / Advance Directive
Outlines your wishes for end-of-life care. Do you want life support? What about pain management? This document makes your wishes known—and eases the burden on your loved ones.
Designation of Guardian in Advance of Need
Let’s you choose who should (or should not) serve as your legal guardian if a court ever needs to appoint one.
Appointment of Agent for Disposition of Remains
Gives someone you trust the legal authority to make decisions about your body after death—burial, cremation, funeral arrangements, and more.
Without this document, those decisions may fall to next of kin, regardless of your wishes or relationships. It’s especially important for LGBTQ+ individuals and those with estranged or distant relatives.
*Bonus* Revocable Living Trust
Helps you manage and distribute assets during life and after death, often avoiding probate.
You control who gets what, and when—and you can name anyone as a trustee or beneficiary.
This is a will alternative.
✋ Real Talk: Don’t Leave It Up to Chance
We’ve heard too many heartbreaking stories:
Estranged relatives blocking hospital visits.
Partners of 20+ years being cut off from estates.
Siblings excluded from saying goodbye.
👉 Without the right paperwork, your people may have no legal rights.
Let’s change that.
🌈 Your Family. Your Voice. Your Plan.
Whether you’re just beginning or updating existing documents, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Knowledge is power.
📩 Have questions? Want to get started?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Your future—and your people—are worth it.