
ESTATE PLANNING
Warm Guidance. Thorough Plans. Peace of Mind.
Cara L. Hernandez, J.D.
I founded the Law Office of Cara L. Hernandez, PLLC with one simple goal: to make the legal process feel less overwhelming and more human. My focus is to practice with compassion, clarity and commitment to help others feel secure and supported.
What People Are Saying
“Our experience with Cara was fantastic. My parents can now rest comfortably, knowing that their affairs are in order and their wishes are clear. Cara and her staff took great care of them and made sure they fully understood what they were doing. I would recommend her services to absolutely everybody.”
— Carlos
“Cara is a very compassionate and patient person. I knew my estate planning would be a little complex and she and her staff took care of everything. She not only managed my will, but she also addressed everything they would need if I were unable to care for myself before then. These were things of which I had not even thought. Cara and her staff went above and beyond,”
— Stacey
“Estate planning is a long process that forces more conversations than you can imagine. Some are fun. Others, not so much. Cara created a safe place where emotions are not just permitted, but welcome. At no point in time did it feel transactional. All of this is even before the peace of mind that comes with having an organized plan in place.”
— Lou
How can we help you?
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I Have Multiple Properties or a Small Buisness
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We are Parents with Small Children
No Family is the same: Blended Families, Single Parent Families, Children with Disabilities, all require specific care
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I am not a US Citizen
Many people do not realize that there are specific stipulations for non-US citizens. With careful planning these can be addressed
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What if I Become Incapacitated to Make Decisions for My Own Care?
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Do I need a Wil or a Trust?
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My Life Is Simple - I think My Plan Should Be Straight Forward
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I am a Financial Advisor, CPA, Realtor, or Fellow Lawyer. How Can I Help My Clients With Their Estate Plans?
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My Loved One Is No Longer With Us. What Do We Do Now?
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UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
January 15
Venue
New York, NY
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sounds like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest.
February 15
Venue
New York, NY
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sounds like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest.
March 15
Venue
New York, NY
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sounds like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest.
What is Estate Planning?
Legacy
Have you ever been told you remind your parents or grandparents of a beloved relative who has passed? Have you ever wished you knew more about your family tree and the stories of those who came before you?
At our firm, we believe legacy is about more than passing down what you have—it’s about sharing who you are. Estate planning gives you the opportunity to preserve your values, memories, and wisdom alongside your financial assets.
We can help you document your wishes, capture your personal stories, and ensure that your family inherits not just property, but a sense of connection and identity.
Because your legacy is more than possessions—it’s the gift of belonging, meaning, and peace of mind for generations to come.
“Secure your legacy today—because your story deserves to be remembered.”
Wills
A will is a legal document that tells the court — and your loved ones — what should happen to your possessions when you pass away. It allows you to clearly state who should receive your assets and how things should be handled.
However, not everything you own is automatically covered by a will. Some assets may pass by beneficiary designation or other means — and that’s where we come in. We’ll guide you through which items are dealt with under your will and ensure each one is going exactly where you intend.
Revocable Living Trusts
A revocable living trust is often the centerpiece of a complete estate plan. Unlike a will, a trust allows your loved ones to avoid probate court altogether—saving time, money, and stress after your passing. You can place your home and other key assets into the trust now, while still keeping full control during your lifetime.
But a living trust also protects you while you are alive. If you later experience dementia or another form of mental deterioration, the trust provides a seamless way for the person you’ve chosen to step in and manage your affairs—without the need for court involvement or guardianship proceedings. This keeps your finances and property safe, ensures your wishes are followed, and relieves your loved ones of difficult legal hurdles during an already emotional time.
We’ll help you design a trust that protects your family, avoids probate, and provides peace of mind knowing that your affairs will be handled smoothly, privately, and with dignity—both now and in the future.
Appointment of Guardian for Minor Children
If you have children under 18, choosing who will raise them in the event of your death is one of the most important decisions you can make. A legal guardianship designation allows you—not a judge or distant family member—to decide who will care for your children if something were to happen to you.
Without clear guardianship documents in place, your loved ones may have to go through a lengthy and emotional court process, and the court could end up appointing the last person you would have chosen to raise your children.
We help you name both primary and backup guardians, and make sure those wishes are legally documented so they can be honored.
Medical Power of Attorney
If you become unconscious and can’t speak for yourself, a Medical Power of Attorney allows you to name someone you trust to make healthcare decisions on your behalf. This ensures your chosen decision-maker is legally authorized to talk to doctors and guide your care in case of an emergency.
We’ll help you consider who might be the best fit and make sure your family has a clear plan in place if a medical emergency does occur.
It’s one of the kindest gifts you can give your family—peace of mind in the middle of a health crisis.
“Empower the person you trust most—let’s create your Medical Power of Attorney today.”
Living Will / Advance Directive
A Living Will (Advance Directive) allows you to share your wishes about medical treatments and end-of-life care. Instead of leaving your family to guess what you would have wanted, this document provides clarity, reduces stress, and helps prevent painful family disagreements during difficult moments.
If you have preferences about life support, feeding tubes, or comfort care, we’ll help you express them clearly and compassionately.
We’ll put your wishes in writing—so your loved ones aren’t left wondering.
“Make your voice heard, even when you can’t speak—set up your Living Will today.”
HIPAA Release
Even with a Medical Power of Attorney, doctors and hospitals still require permission to share private health information. A HIPAA Authorization ensures your chosen loved ones can speak with medical staff and receive updates about your condition.
Without it, the people closest to you may be shut out or left in the dark at a critical time.
We’ll make sure those you trust most have the access they need in a medical emergency.
“Keep your loved ones informed when it matters most—add a HIPAA Release to your plan.”
Practical Preparedness
Estate planning is more than paperwork—it’s about creating clarity, security, and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. During your session, we focus on open communication and practical steps to ensure you feel confident and prepared:
Helping you clearly understand your finances.
Making sure you know where to find essential documents.
Establishing a secure system for storing and accessing passwords.
Reviewing your accounts and assets so nothing is overlooked.
Providing a complete picture of your financial well-being.
Encouraging open conversations so your wishes are clearly understood and respected.
Our goal is to relieve uncertainty and give you peace of mind, knowing that everything is organized, accessible, and aligned with your values.
“Take control of your future—organize, prepare, and protect what matters most today.”
Intestacy
Did you know that the State of Texas already has an estate plan for you if you don’t create one yourself? Most people are surprised—and often unsatisfied—when they learn how the state’s plan distributes their property. Without a will or proper estate plan, your wishes may not be honored, and your loved ones could face unnecessary stress and complications.
Don’t leave your future in the state’s hands. Take control, protect your family, and find peace of mind with a personalized estate plan.
Real Estate
Do you own your home and have minor children? Are you considering purchasing a second home in another state? Have you inherited property outside of Texas?
Without proper planning, your loved ones could face ancillary probate—a separate court process in another state to transfer property. Ancillary probate often means extra time, money, and stress for your family.
With the right estate planning tools, we can help you avoid ancillary probate, streamline the process, and protect your property across state lines.
Plan ahead today to save your loved ones unnecessary headaches tomorrow—and give yourself lasting peace of mind.
“Secure your property across state lines—protect your family from unnecessary probate.”
Pet Trusts
What about your furry friends? Have you considered what will happen to them when you pass away?
Through a pet trust, you can make legally binding arrangements to ensure your pets are placed with someone who will love and care for them. You can also set aside resources to provide for their food, veterinary care, and daily comfort—so your beloved companions continue to live in the style they are accustomed to.
Planning ahead means your pets won’t be left to chance. Instead, you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’ll be cared for with the same devotion you’ve always given them.
Protect your family—including the four-legged members—by including a pet trust in your estate plan.
“Your pets are family too—plan now to keep their tails wagging tomorrow.”
