PROBATE AND ESTATE ADMINISTRATION IN ROUND ROCK, TX AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

When a Texas resident passes, his or her estate may be subject to probate, which is a legal proceeding where the court supervises the administration of the decedent’s estate. In this proceeding, the probate court appoints someone to serve as an executor or administrator, creditors are notified and debts are paid, and remaining property, if any, is distributed to the decedent’s heirs according to the Will, or the laws of intestacy if there is no Will. Dawson Law LLP® is well versed in probate matters and is experienced in handling a wide array of probate administration issues.

How long does the probate process take?

For “simple” estates, the probate process can usually be completed within one year and can be relatively inexpensive. However, for many estates, the process may take upwards of 2-3 years and can be costly, which is one of the reasons the Firm often recommends a living trust to be included in your estate plan. A properly drafted trust can avoid probate entirely, thereby significantly reducing the burdens placed on your loved ones.

How much does Probate cost?

Probate courts charge fees for filing, cost of bond (if required), and publication. It’s not uncommon for third-party fees, such as CPA’s and property appraisers, to exceed $5,000. When you factor in attorney’s fees, that cost may be significantly higher. To make it worse, if a corporate executor was appointed in your Will,, your estate may be charged a 5% commission to compensate that executor. Not all property is subject to probate, however, and it’s important that you speak with an experienced probate attorney. For property that would be subject to probate, there are ways to avoid it altogether. One solution is to place your property into a well drafted living trust before your death, thus bypassing probate’s unnecessary fees and headaches entirely. Probate can be a complicated and expensive process, and it’s easy to make mistakes. Dawson Law LLP® assist clients throughout the state of Texas, including the Austin, Houston, and Round Rock, TX areas.

EXPERIENCED TEXAS PROBATE AND ESTATE ADMINISTRATION

If you’re needing assistance with probate and estate administration, please contact Dawson Law LLP® at (512) 649-5010 or by email at info@dawson.law to speak with a knowledgeable probate attorney.

Asset Protection

Wealthy individuals and business owners face special challenges when it comes to protecting and passing on their assets to heirs.

Estate Planning

Dawson Law LLP® is experienced with assisting families create an effective and
focused special needs estate plan.

DISCUSS YOUR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS. CLICK BELOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT. TO FIRST HELP CONSIDER WHETHER DAWSON LAW LLP® IS A GOOD FIT, PLEASE REVIEW THE FIRM’S PRICING PAGE.