If you die without a will in Texas, state law creates one for you. The Texas laws of intestate succession determine who inherits property if there is no will and how much they get. Unfortunately, this may have unwanted consequences. In this blog, we briefly summarize the rules of inheriting property without a will in Texas. Who Inherits Property...
Continue ReadingWhen you think about how to give your home to a loved one after you die, your first thought might be, “My last will and testament.” However, a will is not your only choice when giving real estate to loved ones after you die. Longer probate proceedings are not inevitable when passing your estate on to the next generation....
Continue ReadingBeing the personal representative or executor for the estate of someone who passed away is a big deal. Taking on the role means properly paying debts from the estate and ensuring that the deceased person’s (decedent’s) beneficiaries receive their shares. This hard work begins with compiling a comprehensive inventory of the decedent’s assets. So, how detailed does an estate...
Continue ReadingA house can be one of the most valuable assets a person owns. But what happens to it if they still owe money on it when they die? What happens if a house goes into foreclosure during probate? There are ways to delay foreclosure, usually requiring a promise to pay outstanding amounts owed. The lender may successfully foreclose if...
Continue ReadingProbate is one of a few areas of the law that most people will interact with at some point. When someone dies, someone needs to take care of their final affairs. Probate is an integral part of that process and requires a probate lawyer. When deciding who to hire, it helps to bring a list of the most important...
Continue ReadingCreating a probate inventory is one critical task that stands out when dealing with the probate process. This step is essential for ensuring a smooth estate settlement under Texas law. Understanding its importance can help you handle the probate process with confidence. What Is a Probate Inventory? A probate-inventory is a detailed list of all the assets and liabilities...
Continue ReadingUnder Texas law, the probate process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re handling the estate of a loved one. You might ask yourself, Do I need a lawyer for probate? This question is common, and understanding when legal assistance is necessary can help you make an informed decision. What Is Probate Under Texas Law? Probate is the legal process...
Continue ReadingWhen planning for the end of life, you trust a lawyer to help you design an effective and efficient estate plan. Ensuring you select an experienced, knowledgeable lawyer who listens can help you attain the peace of mind of having a good estate plan. Understanding what your plans say and what will happen during estate and trust administration brings...
Continue ReadingWhen you plan your estate, providing for your loved ones is often priority number one. You want to make the transition as stress-free as possible, minimize costs, get property in their hands quickly, and distribute assets fairly. You can often accomplish these goals through probate avoidance—creating legal documents that pass property to new owners without court involvement. At Robbins...
Continue ReadingAfter a person dies, their loved ones must usually manage their final affairs through estate administration in probate court. Naturally, people often look for ways to make the process less burdensome. One possibility is to seek independent administration, which requires everyone entitled to receive something from the estate’s consent and allows the estate’s representative to act without court approval. ...
Continue Reading