Losing a loved one is difficult enough, but discovering they've left behind more debts than assets can pile on a layer of stress to your grief. If you're a family member facing this situation, you might wonder about your responsibilities and the rights of creditors....
Decatur Family Law and Probate Attorney
What can you expect when interacting with probate court?
Probate court can be a total mystery to Texas residents who find themselves facing the need to administer an estate. Most people have little to no exposure to the American legal system in any form, outside of perhaps minor traffic tickets or maybe a personal injury...
Know the facts about the personal representative and probate
In Texas, the personal representative plays a fundamental role in the probate process after a person has died. This is often referred to as the executor. When a person writes their will, they will name a trusted individual to perform these duties. The court will...
What are the rules of intestate succession in Texas?
When a loved one passes away without a will, it presents a complex web of questions and uncertainties. Who gets what? Who's in charge? And how do you even begin to sort it all out? In Texas, the rules of intestate succession are in place to provide some much-needed...
Familiarizing yourself with the basics about probate in Texas
If you find yourself involved in a probate matter, it may be the first time you have ever had to deal with this type of legal situation. Most people probably never have to deal with the legal system, outside of maybe personal injury cases or minor traffic infractions....
Common misconceptions about probate
Probate often carries a negative reputation, leading to several misconceptions. Understanding the probate process can help ease concerns and clarify what to expect. In Texas, specific rules govern probate, and dispelling myths can make the process smoother for...
What information do you need to probate a will?
In Texas, probating a will is an integral part of settling a person's estate after they have died. The responsibility falls on the executor who was named to serve in the role by the person who wrote the will or an administrator designated by the court. To proceed with...
When can I contest a will?
When someone passes away and leaves a will, you might be shocked or unhappy when you believe the terms of the will are wrong. Perhaps you were left out of the will or did not receive something you believe you should have. Will disputes are not uncommon in Texas....
When should you consider guardianship of an aging parent?
As our parents age, their health can significantly decline. If that’s happened to one of your parents, then you might be worried about how they’re going to take care of themselves and manage their affairs. If it seems unlikely that they’ll be able to do so on their...
Resolving issues arising in the probate process
Much like it is true that everyone will pass on, it is also true that the property, assets and debts held at the time of your death must be administered through probate. Unless an individual took specific measure to avoid the probate process, probate will likely to...
