PROBATE
We Help From Filing to Final Distribution
When someone passes away, their home, money, and property don't transfer automatically, a court process called probate makes it official. Which path is right depends on whether there's a will and what assets were left behind.
Probating A Will
A will offers no authority until a court admits it to probate. We assist executors in obtaining necessary letters testamentary required by banks and title companies so they can act for the estate. Most independent administrations can be completed in a few months.
01
Application
Filed with the county probate court, along with the original will.
02
Hearing
A court appearance where a judge validates the will, and officially appoints an executor.
03
Letters Testamentary
The executor receives authority to collect assets and pay estate debts.
04
Wrap Up
Inventory, required notices, and distribution to the heirs named in the will.
Declaration Of Heirship
If someone dies without a will, Texas law determines who inherits. A declaration of heirship asks the court to formally identify the heirs so the decedent's property can be transferred to them. This proceeding typically follows four phases:
01
Application
Filed with the county probate court, asking the court to determine who the legal heirs are.
02
Attorney Ad Litem
The court appoints an independent attorney to confirm there are no unknown heirs.
03
Hearing
Witnesses who knew the family testify about the decedent's family and marital history.
04
Judgment
The court declares the heirs and their shares.
Beyond The Standard Process
Probate and estate administration often involve more than filing and distributing.
Contested Probate Matters
When a will is challenged, whether over its validity, the conduct of the executor, or competing claims against the estate, the administrator needs someone in their corner. We represent executors and administrators defending the validity of a will and protecting the estate from claims that would overturn the decedent's wishes.
Estate Administration
Being appointed executor is only the beginning. We help executors and administrators carry out their duties, including collecting assets, satisfying estate debts, notifying required parties, and distributing what remains to the rightful heirs, all while staying in compliance with the court's requirements throughout the process.
Real Property in Estates
When an estate includes real property, transferring it to the right person requires more than a court order. We handle deed preparation, title transfers, and all property-related work that arises during probate and estate administration, making sure the transfer is clean, legally sound, and properly recorded.
