Wills, Trusts, and Random Acts of Marketing: A Conversation with Attorney Riley Alcozer - Ep 35

In Episode 35 of Cases & Cocktails, hosts Bryan and Janice Eggleston dive into the world of wills, trusts, probate, and fiduciary litigation with special guest Riley Alcozer, a seasoned estate planning attorney and co-founder of Hardy Alcozer, a law firm based in Central Texas.

Riley brings a refreshing blend of legal expertise, humor, and authenticity to the conversation. Over a peach tequila cooler (with G4 Tequila, peach nectar, lime, and Topo Chico), the trio covers everything from irrevocable trusts and guardianships to probate and post-divorce planning—all with a healthy dose of laughter and real-world advice.

Riley shares that her journey into law started in high school, originally inspired by her ambition to become President of the United States. Though she ultimately pivoted from politics to estate law, she now leads a successful firm with 12 attorneys and a robust team helping clients through major life transitions.

Throughout the episode, Riley emphasizes that estate planning is not one-size-fits-all. She dismantles the common internet myth that “a trust solves all your problems,” explaining the key differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts and when they are (or aren’t) necessary.

In Texas, she explains, probate is often not as burdensome as many assume. “It’s a $5,000, six-month kind of process on average,” she says, pointing out that many clients are better suited to a simple will-based plan than an elaborate trust they may never fully fund. However, for individuals with property outside of Texas, minor children with financial needs, or specific privacy concerns, a trust may be more appropriate.

The episode also explores estate planning within the context of divorce. Riley discusses what happens when someone passes away during a divorce, how Texas law treats spouses in that scenario, and how estate planning documents like wills or trusts may—or may not—protect the client’s wishes during the process. She advises that in some cases, clients should consider drafting a holographic (handwritten) will to help clarify intentions mid-divorce without running afoul of standing orders.

As Bryan notes, these are often “temporarily life-ruining” events for clients, and Riley echoes that sentiment, reminding listeners that their role as lawyers is not just legal—it’s emotional too. She candidly shares how her office dog, Ellie the Australian Labradoodle, helps comfort grieving clients during tough conversations. “Sometimes I can hand you a tissue and my dog, and then I’ll be here when we’re ready to get back to the legal stuff,” she says.

The episode closes with a look at fiduciary litigation—disputes involving wills, trustees, estates, and family dynamics. These cases, often emotional and deeply rooted in long-standing family conflict, can be among the most costly and complex. Riley stresses the importance of cost-benefit analysis, saying, “Principles are expensive,” and encouraging clients to define what a “win” really means to them before engaging in prolonged litigation.

With relatable anecdotes and down-to-earth insights, Riley offers a candid view of estate law—and why empathy, communication, and thoughtful planning are crucial in helping clients through some of life’s hardest moments.