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Estate Planning & Probate
Nobody wants to think about a will while they're busy living their life. But the families who skip it are the ones who leave their spouse, their kids, or their parents guessing during the worst week of their lives.
A will, a trust, or a probate process shouldn't be a mystery. It should be a plan your family can actually follow when it matters.
*This page is general information about Texas dog bite and dram shop law, not legal advice for your specific situation.
Houston Estate Planning & Probate Attorney
Estate Planning Services
Wills
Trusts
Powers of attorney
Guardianship designations for minor children
Healthcare directives
Probate in Texas
When somebody passes away, their estate usually has to go through probate, the court process that validates a will (or sorts things out if there wasn't one) and gets assets to the right people.
Texas actually has some of the more efficient probate procedures in the country, called independent administration. But efficient still means paperwork, deadlines, and a court that doesn't wait for anyone's grief. Having someone walk your family through it makes a real difference.
Do I Need a Will in Texas?
Yes, if you own property, have children, or want any say in who handles things when you're gone. Without a will, Texas intestacy law decides for you, and it doesn't always match what you'd actually want.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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If you own property, have children, or want a say in how your affairs are handled, yes. Without one, Texas law decides for you.
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A will directs how your assets are distributed after you pass and generally goes through probate. A trust can avoid probate for the assets placed in it and offers more control over timing and conditions.
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It varies, but Texas's independent administration process is generally faster than probate in many other states. A free consultation can give you a realistic timeline for your situation.
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No. A will still generally has to go through probate, it just tells the court and your family what you wanted. A living trust is the tool typically used to avoid probate for the assets placed in it.
Have other questions? Get in touch with us!