Probate Administration
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of navigating the legal process to settle their estate. Our experienced probate attorneys guide executors and families through every step of Texas probate, from filing the initial application to final distribution of assets.
Navigate Texas Probate with Confidence
Probate can seem overwhelming, but with proper legal guidance, the process becomes manageable. At Texas Estate Attorneys, we have extensive experience with Collin County, Dallas County, and Denton County probate courts. We know the local procedures, judges, and requirements to move your case forward efficiently.
“What sets Texas Estate Attorneys apart is our personalized approach to legal representation. We understand that every case is unique, and we take the time to understand your specific needs and goals.”
Matthew Sanderson
Founding Attorney
Protecting Executors and Beneficiaries
Fiduciary Duty Guidance
Executors have serious legal responsibilities and can be held personally liable for mistakes. We provide clear guidance on fiduciary duties, help avoid common pitfalls, and ensure all legal requirements are met. Our goal is to protect both the executor and the beneficiaries throughout the probate process.
Probate Services
Will Probate Filing
We handle all aspects of filing a will with the probate court, including preparing the application, gathering required documents, and representing you at probate hearings. Our thorough approach ensures the process moves forward smoothly.
Independent Administration
Most Texas estates benefit from independent administration, which minimizes court oversight and speeds the process. We guide executors through their duties, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while avoiding unnecessary delays.
Executor Guidance
Serving as executor carries significant legal responsibilities. We provide comprehensive guidance on fiduciary duties, creditor claims, asset management, tax filings, and beneficiary distributions. Protect yourself from personal liability with proper legal support.
Muniment of Title
For simple estates with no debts (other than secured debts on real property), muniment of title offers a faster, less expensive alternative to full probate. We help qualifying estates use this streamlined procedure to transfer property.
Will Contest Defense
When a will is challenged, executors need experienced representation. We defend the validity of wills against claims of undue influence, lack of capacity, fraud, and improper execution. Protect your loved one's final wishes.
Small Estate Affidavits
Estates under $75,000 (excluding homestead and exempt property) may qualify for simplified probate procedures. We help families determine eligibility and prepare small estate affidavits to transfer property without full probate.
Creditor Claims Management
Proper handling of creditor claims protects executors from personal liability. We help identify legitimate debts, challenge improper claims, and ensure the estate pays only what it legally owes while preserving assets for beneficiaries.
Estate Asset Distribution
Distributing assets to beneficiaries requires careful attention to the will's terms and legal requirements. We guide executors through proper distribution procedures and help resolve disputes among beneficiaries.
Intestate Estate Administration
When someone dies without a will, Texas intestacy laws determine asset distribution. We help families navigate heirship proceedings and intestate administration to properly distribute the estate according to law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Texas probate typically takes 6-12 months for straightforward estates. Complex estates with disputes, tax issues, or numerous assets may take longer. Independent administration (the most common type in Texas) is generally faster than dependent administration because it requires less court oversight.
Independent administration allows the executor to manage the estate with minimal court supervision. The executor can pay debts, sell property, and distribute assets without seeking court approval for each action. Most Texas wills authorize independent administration, making probate faster and less expensive.
Not all estates require full probate. Small estates under $75,000 (excluding homestead and exempt property) may qualify for simplified procedures. Assets with beneficiary designations (life insurance, retirement accounts) or joint ownership pass outside probate. Trusts also avoid probate entirely.
Executors must file the will with probate court, inventory assets, notify creditors, pay valid debts and taxes, manage estate property, and distribute assets to beneficiaries according to the will. They have a fiduciary duty to act in the estate's best interests and can be held personally liable for errors.
Yes, wills can be contested on grounds including lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, improper execution, or the existence of a later valid will. Contests must be filed within two years of the will being admitted to probate. Our attorneys represent both executors defending wills and beneficiaries challenging them.
Get Expert Probate Guidance
Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.