Texas Estate Planning & Probate AttorneysProtecting Your Legacy Across South Central Texas

At Texas Horizons Law Group, we guide you through estate planning and probate with experienced legal counsel. Our team, deeply knowledgeable in Texas law, provides personalized strategies to safeguard your assets and ensure seamless transitions for your loved ones.

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Your Trusted & Experienced Attorneys in Texas

Estate and Probate Legal Services We Provide

  • Will Drafting and Execution

    Creating legally binding documents that specify how your assets should be distributed after your death.

  • Trust Creation

    Establishing various types of trusts (e.g., living trusts, testamentary trusts, special needs trusts) to manage and protect assets during your lifetime and beyond.

  • Powers of Attorney

    Drafting documents to appoint individuals to make decisions on your behalf.

  • Advance Health Care Directives

    Preparing directives to physicians (living wills) and medical powers of attorney to outline your preferences for medical treatment and end-of-life care.

  • Guardianship Designations

    Choosing legal guardians for minor children and yourself in the event of your incapacity or death.

  • Estate and Gift Tax Planning

    Advising on strategies to minimize potential estate and gift taxes, ensuring more of your assets pass to your beneficiaries.

  • Business Succession Planning

    Developing plans for the smooth transition of business ownership and management in family-owned businesses or closely held corporations.

  • Asset Protection Planning

    Strategies to protect your and your loved one’s assets from creditors, lawsuits, and other potential threats.

  • Elder Law Considerations

    Addressing issues related to aging, including long-term care planning and enhanced life estate deeds (Ladybird deeds).

  • Special Needs Planning

    Creating special needs trusts and other planning tools to ensure the care and financial security of loved ones with disabilities without jeopardizing their eligibility for public benefits.

  • Digital Asset Planning

    Advising on the management and disposition of digital assets, including social media accounts, digital currencies, and online accounts, in your estate plan.

  • Marital Property Agreements

    Preparing prenuptial and postnuptial agreements to clarify the ownership and disposition of assets within a marriage.

  • Non-Probate Assets

    Estate planning advice regarding assets passing outside of probate, using non-probate transfers, beneficiary designations, transfer on death deeds, and trusts.

Estate and Probate Legal Services We Provide

Our Probate Legal Services Include:

Our Probate Legal Services Include:
  • Probate Administration

    Handling all aspects of the probate process, including filing the will with the probate court, inventorying assets, and distributing them according to the deceased’s will.

  • Heirship Determination

    In cases where there is no will, assisting in the formal process to identify and legally recognize the heirs of an estate.

  • Ancillary Probate for Out-of-State Assets

    Assisting in the probate process for Texas residents who own property in another state or for non-residents who own property in Texas.

  • Small Estate Affidavits

    Assisting in the preparation and filing of small estate affidavits as an alternative to formal probate for estates meeting certain criteria.

  • Muniment of Title

    Using a will as evidence of title to transfer assets without formal administration in specific circumstances.

  • Creditor Claims Management

    Handling claims made by creditors against the estate, including disputing invalid claims.

Note: Find more service information on our office or city pages below

Rooted in Community, Reaching New Horizons

From our offices in Seguin, New Braunfels, and Junction, Texas Horizons Law Group and its attorneys are deeply engaged in community activities. This local commitment enriches our understanding of the communities we serve, blending our legal skill with a profound sense of community values.

    • Seguin
    • Cibolo
    • Schertz
    • Redwood
    • McQueeney
    • Lake Dunlap
    • Marion
    • Geronimo
    • Santa Clara
    • New Berlin
    • Zuehl
    • Staples
    • Kingsbury
    • New Braunfels
    • Schertz
    • Canyon Lake
    • Fair Oaks Ranch
    • Selma
    • Bulverde
    • Garden Ridge
    • Spring Branch
    • San Marcos
    • Lockhart
    • Luling
    • Uhland
    • Martindale
    • Mustang Ridge
    • Niederwald
    • Floresville
    • Poth
    • Stockdale
    • La Vernia
    • Gonzales
    • Nixon
    • Waelder
    • Smiley
    • Kenedy
    • Karnes City
    • Runge
    • Falls City

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Why Choose Texas Horizons Law Group for Your Estate Planning and Probate Legal Needs?

  • In-depth Knowledge

    Our attorneys bring a wealth of experience and compassion to the practice of estate planning and probate law, ensuring you receive the highest level of guidance and support.

  • Tailored Solutions for Every Client

    Recognizing that each client's needs are distinct, we provide personalized legal solutions designed to protect your interests and achieve your goals.

  • A Proven Track Record

    Our firm's reputation is built upon our consistent ability to navigate the complexities of estate planning and probate law, achieving positive outcomes for our clients.

  • A Commitment to Client Service

    At the heart of our practice is a commitment to exceptional client service. We prioritize clear communication, empathy, and understanding in every interaction.

  • Forward-Thinking Legal Strategies

    Leveraging the latest legal technologies and strategies, we offer efficient and forward-thinking legal services that address today's challenges and anticipate tomorrow's needs.

About Our Flat Fee Pricing Model for Estate Planning and Probate

At Texas Horizons Law Group, we recognize the importance of clarity and predictability in legal costs, especially when it comes to sensitive matters like estate planning and probate. That's why we have adopted a 100% flat fee basis for all our estate planning and probate services. This transparent pricing model ensures that you know exactly what to expect financially, allowing you to budget and plan your future with confidence. By eliminating the typical uncertainties around legal fees, our flat fee structure provides peace of mind and enables more effective financial planning. Partner with us and experience the benefits of a law firm that is committed to fairness and transparency in all our billing practices.

Client Success Stories

Success Stories

Estate Planning and Probate

Drafted a Will allowing one beneficiary the option to purchase the other beneficiary’s interest in a single member limited liability company upon client’s death. The beneficiary with option to purchase participated in the daily operations of the family business.

Real Estate

Represented purchaser in the $11,000,000 purchase of strip center. Negotiated and drafted purchase and sale agreement and form of closing documents. Reviewed survey and title, reviewed existing leases, and performed other due diligence.

Estate Planning and Probate

Assisted estate planning client in creation of family limited partnership. Result was the client’s oil, gas and mineral holdings will pass to the client’s children in a tax-advantageous manner.

Real Estate

Represented seller of land who received cash and equity in buyer’s development. Negotiated the terms and drafted of the purchase and sale agreement. Negotiated terms and drafted limited partnership agreement. Addressed title issues and facilitated the closing of the transaction.

Real Estate

Represented developer of strip center. Handled negotiation of purchase and sale agreement, survey and title review, other due diligence. Drafted lease agreements with tenants.

Estate Planning and Probate

Represented Independent Administrator of an intestate estate that had been in the probate process for 10 years. Probate was complex in that two spouses died in a motorcycle accident simultaneously leaving a minor child and neither had wills. Administrators were appointed for both estates, but the two sides of the family became contentious and the probate dragged out for nearly a decade. We were able to assist the Independent Administrator in winding up the estate in cooperation with opposing counsel and help bring the estate to a peaceable end, despite high tensions.

Banking & Lending

Represented lender in $25,000,000 line of credit development loan to a ranchette developer. Worked with the title company and borrower’s counsel to identify and resolve title issues.

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Testimonials

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Meet Your Estate Planning & Probate Attorneys

  • Stephen K. Ganske

    Stephen K. Ganske

    Estate Planning & Probate, Real Estate, Business & Corporate, and Banking & Lending

  • Andrew S. Murr

    Andrew S. Murr

    Estate Planning & Probate, Real Estate, and Business & Corporate

  • Grace G. Kunde

    Grace G. Kunde

    Estate Planning & Probate, Real Estate, and Business & Corporate

  • Hunter H. Hewell

    Hunter H. Hewell

    Estate Planning & Probate, Real Estate, Business & Corporate, and Banking & Lending

our team our team our team our team our team our team

Ready to Discuss Your Estate Plan? Need to Handle a  Loved One’s Estate? Let's Connect

Schedule a consultation with the friendly team at Texas Horizons Law Group for a tailored estate plan or to probate an estate that safeguards your legacy and loved ones.

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    Estate Planning & Probate FAQ

    This information is for general information only and is not legal advice.

    • What is probate?

      Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's estate is distributed to heirs and designated beneficiaries and debt owed to creditors is paid or settled. It typically involves validating the deceased’s will, appraising the estate's assets, and handling various administrative tasks. Probate also serves to maintain a public record of estate disposition, crucial for tracking property ownership and resolving potential claims. For skilled navigation through the probate process, consult our attorneys at Texas Horizons Law Group.

    • Do you have to probate a will?

      In Texas, probating a will is necessary to legally transfer the deceased's assets unless the estate qualifies for a simpler process due to its size or nature. Even if the estate is small or appears straightforward, probating a will can help avoid complications and ensure that the property distribution aligns with the deceased’s wishes. For tailored advice on whether probate is required or recommended for your specific circumstances, please reach out to our legal team at Texas Horizons Law Group.

    • How long does probate take?

      The duration of the probate process in Texas can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the estate, the clarity of the will, and whether there are any disputes among heirs or creditors. However, for estates that have proper estate planning in place, probate will often take only a few months or less. For advice on your particular situation, consult our probate attorneys at Texas Horizons Law Group.

    • What is estate planning?

      Estate planning involves the proactive organization of your estate's management and disposition during your life and after your death, encompassing wills, trusts (where appropriate), powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and beneficiary designations. Effective estate planning not only ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes but also helps minimize potential taxes and legal fees, ensuring your legacy is maintained as intended. Moreover, it offers peace of mind that your affairs will be handled smoothly and your loved ones cared for according to your desires. For a personalized estate plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals, contact our estate planning attorneys at Texas Horizons Law Group.

    • What happens if you die without a will?

      Dying without a will in Texas means your estate will be distributed according to state intestacy laws, which may not (and probably will not) align with your personal wishes. The state determines who inherits your assets based on family relationships, and this can lead to unexpected and potentially undesirable outcomes, especially for unmarried partners and married couples with children from prior marriages. This can create unnecessary stress and conflict among your surviving relatives and may result in your assets not being distributed as you might have wished. To ensure your wishes are honored, consider consulting our attorneys at Texas Horizons Law Group about creating an estate plan.

    • Can I prepare my own will?

      While it is legally permissible to draft your own will in Texas, ensuring its validity according to state laws is crucial to avoid potential legal issues during probate. A self-prepared will can be susceptible to errors that complicate or invalidate your intended asset distribution. Professional legal assistance is recommended to ensure your final wishes are clearly and effectively stated. For help in your estate planning, consult our experienced attorneys at Texas Horizons Law Group.

    • What is a power of attorney?

      A power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes another person to make decisions on your behalf. This arrangement is particularly vital if you become incapacitated or otherwise unable to manage your affairs. Choosing a trusted individual for this role is essential, as they could wield significant control over important aspects of your life. If properly drafted, a power of attorney remains effective even if you suffer mental incapacity, ensuring uninterrupted management of your affairs. For assistance in creating a power of attorney that reflects your specific preferences and needs, consult an estate planning attorney at Texas Horizons Law Group.

    • How can I plan for medical decisions in the event of incapacity?

      Planning for medical decisions in case of incapacity involves creating advance directives, such as a medical power of attorney and a directive to physicians (a living will). These documents specify your healthcare preferences and appoint one or more persons to make decisions on your behalf if you're unable to do so. Without these directives, healthcare decisions may default to relatives or court decisions that may not align with your wishes. To ensure your healthcare directives are clear and enforceable, consult with our legal team at Texas Horizons Law Group.