Estate Planning & Probate Specialists

Estate Planning & Probate Specialists

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Helpful Experience Determining Texas Heirship

If a loved one has died without a will or left behind assets not covered in the will, such as property acquired after the will was written or property meant for a beneficiary who has already died, your family may be put through the difficult, time-consuming process of heirship determination. The Law Office of Sharon C. Stodghill in Houston, Texas, can help you.

Sharon C. Stodghill and John T. Elliott have the experience to enable them to help your family through this sometimes lengthy, uncertain process. The Texas courts will determine the identity of all heirs and decide how to distribute the estate among them according to Texas intestate law, without regard to what the beneficiaries believe their loved one may have wished to do with his or her property.

Our lawyers know how to answer your questions about the future of the estate, find ways to make the process go more efficiently and help your family resolve this crisis. We can also apply to the court on your behalf to clear title to your loved one’s real estate, bank accounts, pensions and other assets.

Helping Your Family Deal With Confusion and Uncertainty

Our Houston estate attorneys can help you navigate the heirship determination process, which may involve:

  • A small estate affidavit, if there is no will and the estate is worth less than $50,000 (not including the homestead)
  • Appointment of an “attorney ad litem” to represent the interests of unknown heirs if the estate is worth more than $50,000 (not including the homestead), with fees paid from the estate or by the heirs
  • Notices and an investigation by the attorney ad litem to find out if there are spouses, children, siblings or parents who have not been informed of the death of your loved one

Help us ensure that your rights are respected as the Texas courts determine heirship. Contact us today to arrange your initial consultation with the Law Office of Sharon C. Stodghill. Call 713-464-6412 or email us to arrange a free consultation.