Committed Houston Lawyer Assists Executors in Probate Matters
Texas law firm guides clients through the estate settlement process
Since 1983, Bragg Law PC has been at the forefront of guiding clients in Houston and surrounding areas through estate settlement matters. With my in-depth knowledge of applicable Texas law and extensive background handling hundreds of probate cases, I am highly skilled at answering questions and addressing concerns that may come up during this process. If you have been named to serve as the executor for the estate of a relative, friend or acquaintance, I will bring my more than 35 years of experience to advising you.
Seasoned attorney explains the probate process
Probate is the legal process of officially proving the validity of a will, resolving all debts and claims against the deceased person’s estate and distributing its assets to the intended beneficiaries. If the departed didn’t leave a will, their estate will be settled through a different process, known as estate administration. Under Texas law, estates of deceased persons that are worth more than $75,000 must pass through probate or administration. My firm can advise you about the steps involved.
Dedicated counsel helps executors with settling estates
The process of settling an estate in Texas can be a complicated one. If you’ve been appointed as an estate executor, you are charged with multiple duties and responsibilities, such as:
- Locating beneficiaries and heirs at law
- Notifying creditors
- Paying debts
- Identifying, appraising and distributing property
- Preparing and filing tax returns
- Accounting to the probate court for the actions you take
I help clients through each step, advising on all legal requirements and making sure of the accuracy of all documents prepared and all payments and distributions made.
Accomplished legal advocate handles probate disputes
When someone is contesting a will or any of its provisions, the probate process becomes even more complex. There are specific grounds for challenging a will, which include:
- Fraud or undue influence — This means inducing another person by deceit or manipulation to create or alter a will.
- Improper execution or attestation — This happens when a will is not signed or witnessed correctly. In Texas, two witnesses are required at a will signing and the will maker or their designee (with the will maker present) must sign it.
- Mental capacity — The maker of the will must be of “sound mind,” meaning that they understand the will’s purpose, what assets they own and how they wish their property to be distributed.
- Forgery — A will can be rejected in probate court if a signature or any other portion of it has been forged or materially altered.
Using my legal experience gained over the past 35 years, I will help you gather evidence and witnesses to prove the will was properly created, executed and attested and that the testator was acting voluntarily and without any disability.
Contact an experienced Houston attorney for help
If you’re involved in a probate matter in Texas, Bragg Law PC can guide you through the process. I represent clients in Houston and surrounding areas in estate-related cases. For a consultation, please call 713-993-0300 or contact me online.