Dallas-Fort Worth Probate Attorneys

Strategic & Effective Legal Guidance for Families & Individuals

Have you been named the Executor of a will? If so, the assistance of a qualified estate planning attorney will allow you to carry out your duties in a simplified and streamlined manner. Turn to Crain & Wooley to work with our Dallas-Forth Worth probate lawyers to ensure probate is seen through properly and efficiently.

For a free consultation, please call or use our convenient online scheduler to select an appointment time with a probate attorney in Dallas-Fort Worth.

How Does Probate Work?

Probate is the legal process that is necessary to recognize a person’s death and administer their estate. Many people believe that court is reserved solely for disputes – and that is where misunderstanding regarding probate can begin. It is imperative to understand that not every probate involves a dispute or contest. Sometimes the probate process concludes without any disagreement. Disagreement or not, probate guides how assets will pass from a deceased person to their beneficiaries.

There are 8 general steps included in the probate process:

1. Filing an application for probate in the county where the decedent lived
2. Posting notice of probate at the courthouse
3. Validating the will before a judge
4. Completing an inventory of all assets
5. Identifying beneficiaries of the estate
6. Notifying the decedent’s creditors
7. Resolving legal disputes
8. Distributing the assets

The probate process is either expedited or hindered by the type of will administration outlined in the decedent’s last will and testament.

There are two basic types of will administration in the state of Texas:

1. Dependent Administration
2. Independent Administration

If a will does not contain specific language outlining the type of estate administration the author desired along with the number of required witnesses and more, then Texas law requires the probate court to provide strict oversight and approve each step of the estate administration process.

Why Do I Need a Probate Attorney in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Most probate courts in Texas usually require an executor to be represented by an attorney in a probate matter. This is usually required because an executor not only represents himself but also the interests of beneficiaries and creditors. Under Texas law, only a licensed attorney can represent the interests of others, which means preparing and filing pleadings in a probate matter without the assistance of counsel would constitute the unauthorized practice of law. While courts allow limited exceptions to this rule, the result is that executors in Texas almost always have to hire an attorney to help them navigate the probate process. For experienced guidance, reach out to a probate attorney in Fort Worth at Crain & Wooley -- we are ready to help you and answer any of your questions.

Contact a Probate Attorney in Fort Worth online or call (972) 560-6288 today to make an appointment.

What Is Muniment of Title under Texas Probate Law?

A Muniment of Title is a simpler type of probate in which an executor need not be appointed to administer the estate. This means that no person has the legal authority to act on behalf of the state.

A will may be probated as a Muniment of Title if the deceased has:

1. A valid will
2. No debts at the time of their death (exception: a mortgage on their home)

Muniment of Title can be an efficient and affordable method of settling an estate, but it isn’t always the better option. This method of probate is not recommended if there are significant assets in the estate, beneficiaries of the estate are hostile toward one another, there are out-of-state assets, or the estate has significant debts.

Call a Probate Attorney in Fort Worth at Crain & Wooley Today

The probate process contains many variables, which is why you need experienced legal professionals like those atCrain & Wooley to guide you through each phase of the legal process. If you have been named as an executor of a will or administrator of an estate, our Dallas-Fort Worth probate attorneys can help. The legal responsibilities and liability that come with these roles can be overwhelming, but with our advice and extensive resources, you can feel confident your best interests are represented.

Speak with an experienced Probate Attorney in Fort Worth by completing an online form or calling (972) 560-6288. Crain & Wooley is ready to guide you.