Wills | Trusts | Estate Planning | Probate | Guardianship
Thoughtful
Estate Planning
= Peace of Mind
Probate Attorney in Frisco, TX
Convenient. Virtual. Service.
When dealing with the legal and emotional challenges that arise after the loss of a loved one, having a compassionate and skilled probate attorney can make all the difference. At our firm, we offer expert probate services to guide you through every step of this often-complex process.
Our dedicated team is here to address your needs with empathy and professionalism, and we work diligently to minimize stress and confusion, allowing you to focus on what truly matters during this time.
“Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s for everyone, everyone who wants to protect their family and prepare for the future".”
Probate Law Services
When someone you care about passes away, dealing with their estate can be an overwhelming experience. Our team offers guidance on how to manage these challenges effectively, with a focus on making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Probate With or Without A Will
When a loved one passes away, their estate must go through probate to ensure that their assets are distributed according to their wishes or the law.
With a Will: If a will is present, it serves as a guide for distributing the estate according to the deceased’s wishes. We will assist you in filing the will with the court, ensuring that it is properly validated. Our services include:
Without a Will: If there is no will, the estate will be handled according to state laws. Our team will guide you through the process of:
● Estate Administration: We help with appointing an administrator and managing the estate according to legal requirements.
● Asset Distribution: We assist in identifying and distributing assets among heirs according to state intestacy laws.
● Resolving Conflicts: We work to resolve any disputes that may arise among family members or other potential heirs.
Probate Litigation
Disagreements can arise during the probate process, sometimes leading to litigation. Our objective is to manage these situations with professionalism and care.
Avoiding Probate Litigation When Possible: We aim to resolve disputes before they escalate to court by:
● Facilitating Communication: We encourage open and honest dialogue between parties to address concerns early on.
● Negotiating Settlements: We work to negotiate fair settlements that satisfy all parties involved.
● Mediation: When appropriate, we use mediation techniques to help resolve conflicts amicably.
Probate Mediation
Mediation is a process that can help resolve disputes without going to court. We guide you through mediation to reach a fair and efficient resolution.
Probate Mediation Strategy: Our approach to mediation includes:
● Identifying Goals: We help all parties define their goals and interests to facilitate a constructive dialogue.
● Facilitating Discussions: We manage discussions to keep them focused and productive.
● Exploring Solutions: We assist in finding mutually agreeable solutions that address everyone's concerns.
Areas of Practice
Probate refers to the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate. The court reviews the will to determine if it is valid and provides a final ruling on the division and distribution of assets to heirs and beneficiaries based on the will. If a person dies intestate, or without a will, the court divides the estate according to state law. LEARN MORE
A guardianship typically involves the appointment of someone to manage the medical and physical care of a person with limited capacity such as a special needs child or a person with physical or intellectual disabilities. A conservatorship is a court order that appoints someone to oversee the financial affairs of a minor or a person who is incapacitated. One person can serve in both roles. LEARN MORE
A will and last testament form the foundation of an estate plan and are the key instrument used to ensure that the estate is settled in the manner desired by the deceased. While there is more to an estate plan than just a will, it is the presiding document the probate court uses to guide the process of settling an estate. LEARN MORE
Like a will, a trust provides for distribution of assets based on the deceased’s wishes. But unlike a will, a trust can protect assets from creditors and avoid taxes and the cost of probate. It can provide for control and future direction of assets long after the deceased person’s passing. Special needs trusts can permit a disable child or parent to receive income from the trust while still retaining public disability benefits like Medicaid. LEARN MORE
Everyone has an estate, it’s everything you own, your home, your accounts, your cars, and you probably have very specific ideas where and to whom you want your money to go after you pass. Because if you don’t, the state will be very happy to tell you exactly where your money will be going, and you and your heirs may not like it. Take charge of your estate. LEARN MORE
“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”
Warren Buffet
Property Transfer After Death
When someone you care about passes away, dealing with their estate can be an overwhelming experience. Our team offers guidance on how to manage these challenges effectively, with a focus on making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
With A Will
● Probating the Will: Filing the will with the court and managing the probate process to ensure the estate is distributed as intended.
● Muniment of Title: In some cases, we can use the will as a muniment of title, avoiding formal probate procedures for property transfer.
Without A Will
● Judicial Determination of Heirship: We assist in legally determining who the heirs are and how the estate should be divided.
● Estate Administration: We manage the administration of the estate, ensuring that all assets are distributed according to state laws.
Small Estate Affidavit
● Filing the Affidavit: Preparing and submitting the affidavit to handle the estate efficiently.
● Asset Distribution: Guiding you through the process of distributing assets without the need for full probate.
Our expertise provides clear, actionable support tailored to your needs, helping you resolve disputes and navigate legal requirements effectively.
As a dedicated probate attorney serving the Houston community, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist you in managing your probate and estate concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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The probate process in Frisco typically takes between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the complexity of the estate.
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Costs can vary but generally include court fees, attorney fees, and executor fees. These costs can range from a few thousand dollars to a percentage of the estate’s value.
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Common disputes include disagreements over the validity of the will, claims of undue influence, and conflicts among heirs.