Probate

Colleyville Probate Lawyer

Experienced Legal Guidance for Estate Administration

When a relative passes away, his or her estate will be required to go through the Texas probate process. This is a court process that oversees the distribution of the person’s estate to beneficiaries and others. Where a valid will exists, it can move faster and easier through the courts. Where the person has died without a will (“intestate”) it will be more complicated. In either case, an executor of the state will be named or appointed by the court to administer the estate through probate. Probating an estate can be a challenging and confusing process which may call for various legal actions.

If you have been named as an executor of an estate, our firm can provide the legal assistance needed to help you navigate the probate process. At the Law Offices of Kate Smith, PLLC, I have been assisting individuals in estate administration since 2005 in the local courts serving Grapevine, and Tarrant counties. I am here to educate you on the process, review your unique situation involving your role and the unique estate under your care, and to help you successfully resolve it as efficiently as possible.

Need help as an executor or personal representative with probate? Reach out to Kate Smith, a Colleyville Probate Lawyer at 817-479-0534.

Probate Administration in Texas

As the executor or personal representative named for estate administration through probate, you will have various duties. You will act in a fiduciary capacity for the benefit of the estate heirs and beneficiaries; this is a role of responsibility and trust. Your priority is to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries in accordance with the wishes outlined in the decedent’s will.

These duties include:

• Filing an application to have the will validated by the court
• Identifying and locating the beneficiaries named in the will
• Locating and notifying all creditors of the estate and paying valid debts
• Identifying and locating all of the property, assets, and personal belongings of the decedent
• Appraising or valuing all of the estate property and assets
• Handling all tax obligations
• Distributing all of the estate assets and property according to the instructions provided in the will and/or state law

In cases where heirs or beneficiaries are in conflict or there is a will contest, you will be faced with litigation. In cases where no will exists, the process can also become more involved and lengthier. My firm can provide competent assistance with all of these variables and the tasks they require. This can include making all court appearances, filing all necessary applications with the court, preparing and sending notifications to creditors, cataloging and having appraisals made on property and assets, and handling complex courtroom litigation.

With the help of an experienced Colleyville Probate Lawyer, the probate process can proceed more efficiently and you will have peace of mind knowing that it has been accomplished according to the requirements of state law.

Call the Law Offices of Kate Smith, PLLC at (817) 479-0534 to discuss your legal situation and needs today.