Probate Law
Navigating Probate with Confidence
The Texas probate process involves validating wills, appointing an executor, inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property to beneficiaries. Mistakes during this process can result in personal liability, delayed distributions, family conflicts, and unnecessary expenses.
At Barnard Law, we provide compassionate support and experienced guidance throughout the probate process. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your family during this difficult time.
The Texas Probate Process
Texas probate typically follows these stages:
Initial Filing: We prepare and file applications with the appropriate probate court, including death certificates, original wills, and detailed applications.
Court Hearing: We represent you at hearings to probate wills and obtain appointments as executor.
Estate Administration: We publish a notice to creditors, assist in the creation of an estate inventory, and provide advice regarding ongoing estate management.
Distribution and Closing: We prepare documentation for final asset distribution to beneficiaries and estate closure.
Timeline: Most estates close within three to twelve months, though complex estates with business interests, real property, tax issues, or disputes take longer.
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Compassionate Guidance Through Difficult Times: We handle the legal complexities while you focus on your family, providing clear direction and steady support throughout the entire probate process.
Efficient Estate Administration: From filing initial documents through final asset distribution, we navigate the probate court system efficiently, minimizing delays and protecting estate value every step of the way.
Transparent Process & Communication: You’ll always know what’s happening, what comes next, and what decisions need to be made. No surprises, no confusing legal jargon, just clear answers when you need them most.
How We Help
For Executors
We guide you through independent or dependent administration, help you understand your fiduciary duties, assist with asset inventory and management, prepare required court filings, and protect you from personal liability and beneficiary disputes.
For Beneficiaries
We represent your interests to ensure proper estate administration, review inventories and accountings for accuracy, address concerns about estate management, and protect your inheritance rights.
Small Estate Affidavits
For estates under Texas statutory thresholds, we prepare simplified affidavits that avoid formal probate entirely.
Why Choose Barnard Law for Probate
Experience with Complex Estates
We handle probate for business owner estates, multi-property estates, ranch and agricultural estates, and blended family situations with sensitivity and expertise.
Executor Protection
We protect executors from personal liability by providing clear guidance on legal requirements and ensuring compliance with court procedures.
Beneficiary Advocacy
We ensure beneficiaries receive proper accountings, timely distributions, and protection of their inheritance rights.
Efficient Administration
We pursue independent administration whenever possible to minimize court involvement, reduce costs, and expedite distributions.
Compassionate Service
We understand probate happens during difficult times. We handle legal complexities with professionalism while treating your family with care and respect.
Common Probate Questions
How long does probate take in Texas?
In typical uncontested administrations without complex assets or litigation, most probate administrations complete within three to twelve months. Complex estates may take longer. Generally, Texas law requires probate within four years of death.
Do all estates require probate?
Not all estates require probate. Assets with beneficiary designations, property held in trust, and jointly owned property with survivorship rights pass outside probate. However, individually owned property generally requires probate proceedings.
Can I handle probate without an attorney?
While Texas does not always mandate legal representation in every probate proceeding, many courts or types of filings do require an attorney (for example, when the applicant is representing third-party interests). We strongly recommend legal counsel to avoid pitfalls.
Ready to Protect Your Wishes?
Your will and trust documents are too important to leave to chance or templates. Schedule a consultation to discuss your situation and discover how we can help you create comprehensive protection for your legacy.