C. David Norris - Estate Planning Attorney

12/04/2025

I’ve just about come to the conclusion that the best piece of general estate planning advice I can give is:

“Stay off TikTok”

11/24/2025

Proud to work with Ben!

Ross & Shoalmire, PLLC is proud to announce that Ben King - Elder Law Attorney recently secured an important appellate victory before the Texas Sixth Court of Appeals in Texarkana.

Ben represented a client seeking to protect her grandmother from abuse by another family member. After the trial court granted a protective order to ensure her safety, the abuser appealed. Ben continued the fight, writing the appellate brief and arguing the case before the Court of Appeals.

The appellate court upheld the protective order, keeping our client’s grandmother safe and protected.

Ben was pleased to share the following: “I’ve helped clients secure outcomes worth millions of dollars in my career. But this case was one of the most rewarding because it wasn’t about money. It was about safety, dignity, and standing up for someone who truly needed protection.”

This outcome reinforces our firm’s commitment to protecting vulnerable Texans, especially the elderly, and pursuing justice with dedication and genuine care for the communities we serve.

11/11/2025

My wife and I were very happy to have the opportunity to sing and play some gospel music at The Villa at Texarkana for Veteran’s Day. The residents have beautiful voices and sang along at the tops of their lungs. Thank you to all who served. We are very thankful for your sacrifice. 🇺🇸

08/18/2025

Take a minute and vote for our team!

06/26/2025

A big thank you to Bridging the Gaps of Arkansas for having me out today! I had a great time visiting with your wonderful group of Bingo-loving seniors.

It was a joy to share some simple estate planning tools—things like powers of attorney, living wills, and how a beneficiary deed can help your home pass without probate (and even avoid a Medicaid claim). These conversations matter, and I’m always grateful for the chance to help folks plan with peace of mind.

Thanks again for the warm welcome and all you do for seniors in our community!

06/17/2025

🥊 Remember those Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots? You’d crank their arms, throw wild punches, and wait for someone’s head to pop up. Fun as a kid — not so fun when it’s your family fighting after you're gone.

Too often, families are left swinging at each other in grief and confusion because there wasn’t a clear estate plan in place and a happy legacy can quickly be replaced with one of bitterness and resentment - surely not how you want to be remembered.

Your legacy shouldn’t come with chaos. With a little intention now — clear instructions, honest conversations, and the right tools — you can help your loved ones avoid the emotional mess later.

📝 This post breaks down 5 simple ways to reduce family conflict in your estate plan.
It’s not about stuff — it’s about peace of mind.

🛑 Avoid Family Fights Later by Planning Well Now

5 Ways to Reduce Conflict in Your Estate Plan:

🔹 Be Clear & Specific
Avoid vague instructions—spell out who gets what and why.

🔹 Communicate Early
Have honest conversations with your family before you’re gone.

🔹 Choose the Right Executor
Pick someone responsible and neutral, not just the “oldest child.”

🔹 Use Legal Tools Wisely
Trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives help reduce confusion.

🔹 Update Regularly
Life changes—so should your estate plan.

👉 Save it. Share it. Start the conversation.

06/12/2025

💬 “Are we overinsured?” That’s the question a listener named Sandy asked after her umbrella policy premium jumped 74%—and it’s one that many retirees are probably wondering too.

In the latest episode of Big Picture Retirement, John and Devin break down how to figure out the right amount of umbrella coverage—especially when you’re nearing or already in retirement.

🔍 Highlights include:

- What assets are actually at risk in a lawsuit—and which are protected by state exemptions (like retirement accounts and homesteads).

- Why a $2 million policy might be overkill if you only have $200k in exposed assets.

- How having the right policy can provide leverage in a settlement—even if you’d never expect to use it.

- What to do when your premium spikes (spoiler: it might be time to shop around).

If you’ve ever wondered whether your coverage is too much, too little, or just right—this episode is worth a listen. 👇

Have you reviewed your umbrella policy lately?

🎧

Sandi wants to know how much a retiree really needs in an umbrella policy. 🎙️ Welcome to the Video Version of Our PodcastThis is Big Picture Retirement. You...

06/11/2025

If you know me, you know I’m a big softie when it comes to pets. Our girl Ellie passed away recently after we got 15 years with her. Our dogs aren’t just animals—they’re family. 🐾 That’s why I always bring up something many folks overlook: what happens to your pets if something happens to you?

Our team wrote this to help fellow pet lovers understand how estate planning can ensure your furry (or feathered!) family are protected and cared for, no matter what the future holds.

Learn why a will isn’t always enough to protect your pet in Texas or Arkansas and how a pet trust can offer stronger, long-term security.

06/09/2025

👋 Welcome to my professional page!

I’m David Norris, an Elder Law Attorney at Ross & Shoalmire, PLLC in Texarkana, TX. I created this space to share helpful tips, resources, and real-life guidance for families navigating estate planning, long-term care, Medicaid, guardianship, and everything in between. And yes, there might be the occasional farm or pet photo, too.

I live in Southwest Arkansas with my wife, Kayla, and our pets and farm animals on our homestead.

Whether you're planning ahead for yourself or helping a loved one through life’s transitions, my goal is to offer clarity, compassion, and confidence every step of the way.

I’m also a big believer in making the law feel personal and approachable—because it is personal.

Thanks for being here. Be sure to follow for updates, advice, and a few friendly faces along the way.