Category: Probate

When one co-owner of a Texas property dies, the next steps depend on how the property was titled. Some forms of joint ownership allow the surviving owner to receive the property immediately, while others require probate. Understanding the difference helps you determine what transfers automatically, what must go through the court process,...

Serving as the executor of an estate is an important responsibility. In addition to collecting assets, paying debts, and distributing property, you may also find yourself in the middle of family disagreements. Probate disputes are common, and they can quickly turn a straightforward process into a stressful one. This blog examines...

When a loved one passes away, the last thing most families want to think about is debt. Unfortunately, managing outstanding debts is an essential part of the probate process. Before any inheritance can be distributed, the estate’s debts must be settled during the probate process. If you're serving as an executor...

Probate is a process designed to make sure a person’s assets are distributed according to their wishes or, if there’s no will, under Texas law. But what happens when an heir cannot be found? Missing heirs can complicate probate and delay closing an estate. If you’re an executor or personal representative...

When it comes to planning for the future, many people want to make things as easy as possible for their loved ones. One tool that can help simplify the process is a Transfer-on-Death (TOD) deed. In Texas, TOD deeds allow you to pass real estate directly to a beneficiary without going...

Choosing an executor is an essential part of any estate plan. An executor has the duty to carry out the deceased person's wishes, manage the estate’s assets, and ensure that debts and taxes are appropriately handled. But what happens if the executor isn't doing their job — or worse, is causing...

When a loved one passes away, emotions run high, and unfortunately, so can family tensions. Even the most close-knit families can find themselves divided during probate. Arguments about the will, confusion over who gets what, or suspicion about how things are being handled can quickly turn into long-term disputes.

When someone passes away in Texas, probate isn’t always as complicated—or as drawn-out—as people expect. In fact, there’s a unique legal shortcut that can make things much simpler: it’s called muniment of title.

If the estate is straightforward and there are no significant debts to settle, this process...

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...