5 Common Mistakes Executors Make During Probate in Texas
When someone passes away and leaves behind a will, the person named as executor takes on a serious responsibility. Probate—the legal process of settling the deceased person’s estate—can be confusing, emotional, and time-consuming. Even with the best intentions, executors can make mistakes that cause unnecessary delays, increase costs, or lead to...
How Can a Proper Estate Plan Minimize Probate?
Probate is the legal process of distributing a deceased person’s estate, but it can be time-consuming, costly, and stressful for loved ones. Many families seek to minimize or avoid probate altogether to ensure a smoother and faster transfer of assets.
Without proper estate planning, your assets may be...
An Executor’s Guide to Navigating Probate in Texas
Serving as an executor of an estate in Texas is an important responsibility that requires careful attention to legal procedures. Executors are responsible for ensuring that the deceased’s final wishes are carried out while complying with Texas probate laws. The process can be complex, and without proper guidance, executors may face delays,...
Amicable Ways to Resolve Probate in Texas
Probate can be an emotional and legally complex process, especially when disagreements arise among family members. Disputes over wills, asset distribution, or executor decisions can create tension and lead to costly litigation. However, with the right approach, probate matters can often be resolved amicably, preserving relationships and ensuring a smoother legal...
Common Probate Mistakes to Avoid
Probate is a necessary legal process for settling a loved one’s estate, but it can quickly become complicated if mistakes are made. Missteps in probate can lead to unnecessary delays, disputes, and financial loss.
At the Law Office of Carey Thompson, PC, we help families and estate representatives...
Beneficiaries Who Require Special Treatment During Estate Planning
Estate planning isn’t just about deciding who gets what. It’s about ensuring your loved ones are financially secure in a way that protects them from unnecessary risks. Some beneficiaries need extra consideration—whether it’s due to a disability, poor financial habits, substance abuse issues, or simply being too young to manage an inheritance...
When a Trustee in El Paso Fails to Do Their Job
Trustees play a vital role in estate planning, managing assets, and ensuring beneficiaries receive what they are entitled to. When a trustee acts improperly—whether through negligence, mismanagement, or intentional wrongdoing—it can cause financial harm and legal disputes.
Whether you're dealing with a trust dispute in El Paso or questioning...
Can Probate Leave Me With a Smaller Inheritance?
If you expect an inheritance, you may assume you’ll receive your full share of the estate. However, the probate process can sometimes reduce the amount beneficiaries ultimately receive. Between court costs, legal fees, taxes, and creditor claims, probate can take a significant financial toll on an estate—leaving heirs with less than anticipated.
Important Estate Planning Considerations When Nearing Retirement
Retirement is a significant life milestone but also a critical time to review your estate plan. As you shift from building wealth to preserving it, ensuring that your assets are protected and your wishes clearly outlined becomes more critical. Many retirees make the mistake of assuming their existing estate plan is sufficient,...
What Is Breach of Fiduciary Duty in Estate Planning?
Most people expect an executor or trustee to manage an estate with honesty and care. After all, fiduciaries are legally required to act in the best interests of beneficiaries. But what happens when they don’t?
Whether you’re a beneficiary concerned about protecting your inheritance or a fiduciary wanting...