What is Probate Law in Texas?

In Texas, probate law governs the legal process of managing and distributing a deceased person’s estate. Probate involves validating the deceased’s will, if one exists, and ensuring that their assets are distributed according to their wishes or, if there is no will, according to Texas intestacy laws. The process also includes addressing any debts and taxes owed by the estate. Probate law provides a framework for the orderly transfer of assets, resolving disputes among heirs, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met.

Key Aspects of Texas Probate Law:
 

Will Validation: Probate begins with the validation of the deceased’s will, ensuring it is legally valid and reflects their true intentions.

Estate Administration: This involves appointing an executor or administrator who manages the estate, including identifying and valuing assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries or heirs.
Debt and Tax Resolution: Before assets can be distributed, all outstanding debts and taxes must be settled. This includes notifying creditors and addressing any claims against the estate.
Dispute Resolution: Probate can involve resolving disputes over the will, asset distribution, or claims against the estate, requiring legal intervention to settle these issues.
Finalizing the Estate: The probate process concludes with a final accounting and court approval, formally closing the estate.

Services We Offer at Haley & Jones:

Will Validation and Execution: We guide clients through the process of validating and executing wills, ensuring that the deceased’s wishes are honored and that the will complies with Texas law.
Estate Administration: Our team assists executors and administrators with managing the estate, including identifying, valuing, and safeguarding assets, and handling all necessary paperwork and court filings.
Debt and Tax Management: We help resolve outstanding debts and taxes, ensuring that all claims are addressed and that the estate complies with legal and tax obligations.
Probate Litigation: We represent clients in probate disputes, including will contests, disputes among heirs, and challenges to asset distribution, working to resolve conflicts effectively and fairly.
Asset Distribution: We ensure the accurate distribution of assets according to the will or intestacy laws, addressing any complications that may arise in the process.
Final Accounting and Estate Closure: We prepare and file the final accounting with the court, seeking approval to close the estate once all matters have been resolved.

At Haley & Jones, we are committed to providing expert guidance and compassionate support throughout the probate process, helping to ensure that your loved one’s estate is managed and resolved efficiently and in accordance with their wishes.