Estate Planning & Probate Specialists

Estate Planning & Probate Specialists

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Do I Need To Go Through Probate?

The attorneys of the Law Office of Sharon C. Stodghill understand that this is a difficult time for our clients. Many of our clients are settling an estate for the first time, and almost all have to also deal with family disruption and grief.

In addition, many of our clients are intimidated by the probate process. This is understandable, as probate can be time-consuming and expensive, particularly if there are significant assets in the estate. However, most estates can be probated in a timely, cost-efficient manner. Many of our clients come to us asking if the probate process is necessary, and they want to know if there is any way to avoid it.

Do I Need To Go Through Probate?

The answer to this question depends on many factors:

  • Whether there is a valid will
  • Determination of decedent’s heirs
  • The nature of the assets
  • The complexity of the estate
  • The ownership of the assets (if, for example, the property of the deceased was jointly held with a survivor)
  • Whether there is a revocable living trust
  • Whether there is a well-drafted will with independent administration

Helping Your Family Move Forward

Our goal is to help your family in any way we can so that you can move ahead. We know that your loved one would want you to avoid unnecessary grief or complication in dealing with the estate.

If there are provisions in the estate plans that make it possible for us to avoid the probate process, we will take advantage of them. If the estate plans are not clear enough, we will try to find alternative methods such as small estate affidavits, affidavits of heirship, family settlement agreements or other alternatives provided by Texas estate law.

Contact a Houston Probate Administration Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Our Houston probate law attorneys are ready to assist you with all of your probate and administration needs. To schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced estate planning lawyer, please call 713-464-6412 or contact our Houston law firm online.