Who Needs a QDOT? Understanding Trusts for Non-Citizen Spouses


One of the most valuable benefits of estate planning is the unlimited marital deduction, which allows married couples to transfer assets to each other without incurring federal estate or gift taxes. So, if one spouse passes away, the surviving spouse can inherit assets without facing immediate tax consequences. However, what many people do not realize is that this benefit only applies if both spouses are U.S. citizens. This limitation can understandably frustrate non-citizen spouses, who are otherwise subject to significant estate tax burdens. Fortunately, a Qualified Domestic Trust (QDOT) may be the ideal alternative.



To learn more, read Leigh's full blog.
 

It Is That Time of Year Again!

Please Nominate

Leigh Hilton for Best of Denton County



Thanks to you, Leigh Hilton PLLC is consistently regarded as one of the top estate planning and elder law firms in Denton County. As a result, this is your official heads-up that you will receive several requests from us over the next few months as we go through what is playfully referred to by many small businesses as “awards season.” And for us, that starts with nominations for Best of Denton County. 


That is right—the annual contest is officially underway. While you can find us in the legal category, it is one of hundreds to choose from as we celebrate all the good things your favorite local businesses do for you and your loved ones.


The nominations stage runs until July 2. When we make the Top 3 (with your help), we would love it if you could come back for the voting stage in mid-July to help us take the lead. Do not worry—we will send out a reminder for that, too.


Winners are announced in August.


Every vote matters, so thank you so much for helping!



Click here to vote .

We are growing!

 We are pleased to announce the newest additions to our Team!
 
 

Attorney Spotlight: Chris Jones


Chris Jones has made it his mission throughout his distinguished legal career to deliver real value to his clients, backed, of course, by decades of experience and a reputation for providing compassionate and strategic guidance. Yet for all he has accomplished over the years, one area of the law has always been slightly more in the background than he would have liked. That is, until now. Chris joined our team of attorneys at Leigh Hilton PLLC in June 2025 and is embracing the opportunity to focus more deeply on estate planning and family transition planning for businesses. 


Read more about Chris Jones.
 

Attorney Spotlight: Coleton Guidry


Coleton Guidry knew his calling in life was to be an attorney. He also knew that, although he would always be loyal to his hometown in Louisiana, his next stop after graduating from the esteemed LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center would need to be Texas.


So much so that when he and his eventual wife, Savanna, went out on their first date, he wasted no time announcing his intentions.


“I told her, ‘I’m going to Texas, and you are welcome to come with me,’” he said with a smile.



Read more about Coleton Guidry
 

Employee Spotlight: Bianca Benskey


Bianca Benskey believes in adding value wherever she goes. That includes her work life, where she brings a can-do attitude, attention to detail, and a strong sense of empathy to every client interaction. Those traits are at the heart of what we need from our client support clerk position, and they are a significant reason why Bianca was an easy choice to join our firm in June 2025. 


Read more about Bianca Benskey

Call Leigh Hilton PLLC today!!


Having a competent estate planner in your corner will help you and your family navigate the often overwhelming waters that come with protecting everything you own and everyone you love. That is our job, and we would like to think we do it better than anyone else. Please call Leigh Hilton PLLC, tel. 940-387-8800, so that we can help ensure you and your family are taken care of in the best way possible.


Leigh Hilton PLLC wants to be your first call every time for any estate planning needs. We look forward to serving you.

Thank You for Your Referrals

 

Andrew Passons

Deane & Glenda Peters

Jean Likhite

Thomas Huebscher
 
 

ATTORNEY LEIGH HILTON



Leigh Hilton has helped over 8,000 families protect the assets that they leave to loved ones from divorce, creditors, lawsuits and predators. She has also helped over 600 families implement the plans that she has prepared after the death of a loved one and helped over 2,400 families implement the plans prepared by other attorneys. She is the author of the books “Who Gets Your Stuff When You Die” and “What Your Spouse Should Know if Something Happens to You”  and a frequent speaker. She has given over 700 speeches to various organizations and groups. She would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how to protect your family. 
 
 
 
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Leigh Hilton, PLLC (940) 387-8800 918 N. Elm, Suite 100 Denton, TX 76201 US

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