Texas Probate Law
In its most simple terms, probate is a legal process that takes place after someone passes away in order to legally transfer the title in the deceased’s assets to his or her beneficiaries or heirs depending if the deceased created a Will during their lifetime. During the probate process, a personal representative (also known as executor) will go through many routine tasks, such as
- Identifying and inventorying estate property
- Paying estate debts and taxes
- Distributing property as directed by a will or Texas Law
Though this explanation of probate may seem simplistic, the process usually is not. There are often a number of different groups interested in the estate, including: creditors, other family members, beneficiaries, surviving spouse, and the representative for the estate. Each group possesses a different interest in the probate administration. In addition to the expected responsibilities, there may be other legal hurdles, such as relatives contesting their share of the Will, a challenge to the validity of a Will or the size and types of debts included as obligations of the deceased’s estate. Because of these competing interests, the steps undertaken to complete a probate administration can be lengthy, time-consuming, and costly—if done improperly.
If your loved one granted you the honor and responsibility of handling the probate administration of his or her estate, don’t take chances and open yourself up to allegations of improper handling of assets. We can help guide you through the process with experienced probate attorneys at affordable costs.
To learn more please visit our Probate Law Learning Center where we have a vast library of articles and tutorials dedicated to the Probate process to better assist you.
