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Our Longview Trust And Probate Attorneys Can Guide You Through Estate Litigation And Probate

When a person passes away in the state of Texas, typically the estate must pass through the probate court. Our probate attorneys at Boon Calk Echols Coleman & Goolsby PLLC in Longview have the experience needed to advise, counsel and assist clients in East and Northeast Texas throughout the probate court process. Additionally, they are seasoned litigators and can assist if disputes arise with the administration of a decedent’s estate.

Please call us in Longview at 903-704-0592 or send us an email to arrange a free consultation.

The Probate Process In Texas

Probate is the legal process in which a person’s estate is administered after their death. The probate process typically includes several steps, including:

  • Filing a petition in probate court
  • Validating the decedent’s last will and testament
  • Identifying an executor or appointing an administrator
  • Notifying the various beneficiaries of the estate
  • Conducting an inventory and asset appraisal
  • Paying off any remaining debt or taxes owed by the estate
  • Distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries named in the estate, or, if the decedent died without a valid will, according to the intestate succession laws of Texas

If the decedent had a will and named an executor, the executor is responsible for overseeing the administration of the estate. If the decedent died without a will or no executor was named, the court appoints an administrator to oversee the process. Without a will, the probate process can be much more costly. Our probate attorneys can help you navigate this process, guiding you so that you can successfully probate your loved one’s will.

Have questions about probate? See our Texas Probate FAQ to learn more.

The Advantages Of Having A Trust

While a will has to go through the probate process, assets that are directed to a trust do not. In addition, a will that is administered in probate court will become part of the public record, while money and assets placed into a trust will avoid the scrutiny of the probate process and remain private. While a will names an executor to oversee its administration, a trust names a trustee who will oversee the trust throughout its existence.

When An Estate Requires Litigation

The probate process happens in probate court with a judge to oversee the process. Occasionally, a dispute arises with the administration of a decedent’s estate. A family member may contest the will and attempt to have it changed or even declared void. If and when a conflict arises, or in the event you believe a family member’s will was invalid for some reason, we can fight for your rights and what you think your loved one would have wanted.

Contact Us For A Free Consultation

We know there can be a lot of questions when it comes to the administration of an estate and navigating the probate process. We offer a free initial consultation to answer any questions you may have. To schedule a free consultation, please call us in Longview at 903-704-0592 or send us an email. We look forward to hearing from you.