Probate Attorneys Serving Clients in Texas
Guiding Families Through Probate With Clarity
When a loved one passes away, families are often left with not only grief but also the legal and financial responsibilities of settling an estate. Probate is a part of this process that can be as overwhelming as it is important, especially if disagreements arise or complex assets are involved. At the Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C., we take a straightforward, results-driven approach to probate cases. Our attorneys understand how to keep the process moving, cut through unnecessary delays, and protect your rights every step of the way.
If you need guidance with a probate matter in Texas, contact us by dialing (254) 938-6885 today.
What Is Probate?
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. It typically involves validating a will, appointing an executor or administrator, paying debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. The probate court oversees this process, which requires that the decedent’s wishes are carried out as closely as possible, and that all financial and legal obligations are met.
Not every estate must go through probate. In Texas, certain assets, such as life insurance policies with named beneficiaries, retirement accounts, or property held in joint tenancy, can usually transfer outside of probate. Additionally, small estates may qualify for simplified procedures due to their reduced overall values. However, many estates still require probate in some form, and even straightforward cases can become complicated without the right legal guidance.
Phases of Probate
Every probate case is unique, but most follow a series of legal steps. Our Texas probate attorneys handle the details of each stage so our clients can focus on what matters most.
The typical probate phases or steps of probate in Texas include:
- Filing the will and opening probate: Our legal team can prepare the necessary petitions, file the will with the probate court, and arrange for the executor or administrator to be properly appointed.
- Inventory and appraisal of assets: From real estate to financial accounts, we can help identify and value estate property in compliance with Texas law.
- Notifying creditors and paying debts: We are here to handle all required notices, respond to creditor claims, and protect the estate from paying more than is owed.
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries: Our attorneys oversee the fair transfer of assets, so beneficiaries receive what the law and the will provide.
- Closing the estate: We can prepare and file final reports, secure court approval, and make sure the estate is fully resolved when it closes.
Common Probate Complications & How We Resolve Them
Even with the best preparation, probate can sometimes lead to disputes or legal challenges. Our firm is ready to step in with decisive action when complications arise, so your best interests and the wishes of the decedent are respected.
Let our Texas probate attorneys help with these common probate-related issues and more:
- Will contests: Whether the will is challenged on grounds of undue influence, fraud, or lack of capacity, we can work to uphold valid documents or challenge unfair ones.
- Family disputes: Inheritance disagreements can quickly become heated. We work to resolve conflicts through negotiation or litigation when necessary, but always try to use amicable approaches that reduce tensions among family members.
- Complex assets: Business ownership, high-value real estate, or out-of-state property can make probate more difficult. We can manage the process with an eye on regulations and requirements from other states that could be involved.
- Executor misconduct: If an executor fails in their duties or abuses their authority, we take swift legal action to protect the estate and beneficiaries.
- Unclear documentation: Missing or unclear documents can stall probate. We use legal strategies and supporting evidence to move the case forward in a way that avoids unnecessary delays.
Our attorneys are problem-solvers. We know you’ll agree from the moment that you trust your probate case to us.
Make Sense of Probate – Call Now
Probate can be stressful, but you can get all the help you need to make it through probate by coming to Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C., serving clients across Texas. You can let our dedicated legal team cut through red tape and fight for fair outcomes in the probate process. Don’t forget to ask about our other estate planning services, too!
Call us at (254) 938-6885 today to discuss your probate matter and protect your family’s future during an initial consultation.