Most people think that probate is expensive and that the process has the potential to deplete an entire estate. However, that’s not necessarily the case.
So, how much does probate cost in Texas?
Well, the truth is that the cost to probate a will in Texas depends on various things, such as the value of the estate, whether you hire a probate lawyer in Texas, and if the decedent had a will. For this discussion, we’ll assume there’s a will.
How Much Does It Cost to Probate a Will in Texas?
It’s difficult to give an average cost to probate a will in Texas because every estate is different. For example, some estates have assets that are hard to value, so you may need to pay an expert to appraise the property.
If the estate owes taxes, probate will be more expensive since you’ll probably hire someone to prepare the appropriate tax documents.
Here are different factors that impact the cost of probating a will in Texas:
- The value of the estate;
- The types of assets in the estate;
- Whether you hire a lawyer;
- The type of probate process;
- If estate litigation takes place; and
- Which estate planning documents the decedent left behind.
As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when answering the question, What does it cost to probate a will in Texas?
What Are the Different Probate Costs in Texas?
The probate cost in Texas is made up of multiple fees.
Here are the most common probate costs and fees:
- Court filing fees;
- Attorneys’ fees;
- Notice publication costs;
- The executor or personal representative’s compensation; and
- Fees for professional services (accountants, appraisers, etc.).
The estate pays all probate fees, which is why the heirs are usually the ones asking about the cost of probate. The more the estate pays in probate costs, the less the inheritance amount.
How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost in Texas?
The cost of a probate lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the estate and the lawyer’s experience. For example, if the estate has tax obligations or is involved in litigation, you’ll need a more seasoned probate lawyer who will likely charge more than a less experienced attorney.
Lawyers charge for their services in one of three ways: a flat fee, by the hour, or a percentage of the value of the estate’s assets.
Do you qualify for probate?
Fill out our quick questionnaire to determine if you need probate, what type of probate you may need, and estimated fees.
Let Us Help You Through the Probate Process
Having a lawyer to guide you through probate is invaluable. While there are plenty of probate resources, an experienced lawyer from The Law Offices of Kyle Robbins, PLLC can handle this administrative process for you. We’ll file the paperwork, pay court fees, and communicate with the court on your behalf.
Our attorneys are here to answer your probate questions and help you make sound decisions. We focus on families and do what we can to relieve the stress that comes with losing a loved one. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Kyle Robbins
Kyle Robbins is the founder and sole owner of The Law
Offices of Kyle Robbins. He received his J.D. with honors from the University of Texas School of Law and his B.S. in Food Chemistry and Microbiology from Oklahoma State University.
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