If your mother wants to save money, she can prepare her own will using one of the new free Texas will forms.

Q: My mom is 81 and a Texas resident. She needs a will. What is the best and most cost-effective way to do a will? Should she hire an attorney? If so, how does she tell the difference between someone who will look out for her interests and someone who can't be trusted? Should the attorney be one who specializes in estates? She has a home, car, checking account, two IRAs and various savings accounts. She has children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A: The best way may not be the most cost-effective way.

In my opinion, your mother should hire an attorney who specializes in estate planning to prepare her will. She can find an attorney........

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