Need a trusted probate lawyer in Dallas, Texas? Call 1st Estate Planning at (469) 207-1529.

When a loved one passes, estate distribution may seem overwhelming to grieving family members. What if there is no will? What types of property must go through probate in Texas? And what happens if the deceased person left debts?

The probate administration attorneys at 1st Estate Planning can help you navigate probate and distribution of a decedent’s estate.

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

A probate lawyer in Texas helps handle all types of legal matters related to a deceased person’s will. For example, a probate attorney may help you deal with:

• Locating and appraising all the decedent’s assets.
• Collecting the decedent’s life insurance benefits.
• Paying a decedent’s remaining debts and estate taxes.
• Drafting and filing all documents required by a Texas probate court.

Not all estates and assets must go through probate in Texas. Exempt assets may include accounts the decedent owned jointly with a surviving spouse, payable-on-death accounts, assets that have beneficiary designations attached to them, and assets that the decedent placed in a trust.

1st Estate Planning can help you determine which of your deceased family member’s assets require probate.

Legally Valid Will vs. No Will

If the decedent left a legally valid will, probate usually progresses without any issues unless there is evidence of circumstances that can cause the will to be challenged, such as fraud, mental incompetence on the part of the will maker, or lack of compliance with legal requirements.

If an individual dies without leaving a valid will, their assets will be distributed according to Texas intestacy laws, even if the result is contrary to what the decedent wanted. These scenarios can become more complex when the decedent was married more than once and had children from prior relationships.

Why You Need a Probate Attorney

A good probate lawyer directs the client through the process and reduces stress. Specifically, a probate administration attorney can help:

• Protect the estate against legal claims.
• Speed up the probate process.
• Counsel estate executors and administrators regarding their legal duties.
• Assist with asset appraisal, debt settlement, and court filings.

1st Estate Planning has helped many Texas families minimize the stress and hassle of probate. We are here to remove confusion, doubt, and delays during estate distribution.

1st Estate Planning: Probate, Estate, and Asset Protection Lawyers in DFW

Are you preparing to handle estate distribution after a family member’s death? Whether your loved one passed away with or without a will, an experienced probate administration lawyer can help you throughout the probate and estate administration process.

To schedule a consultation with 1st Estate Planning, call (469) 207-1529 or contact us online.