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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.