When a loved one dies, the probate process can feel unfamiliar and burdensome. Andrew Dunlap Attorneys, PLLC helps executors, administrators, heirs, and families handle Texas probate and estate-administration matters with practical guidance from an attorney who has practiced law in Texas since 1977.
Probate Representation in North Texas
Our firm assists with probate and estate administration in Dallas County, Tarrant County, and surrounding North Texas communities. We help determine the appropriate procedure, prepare and file the required pleadings, communicate with the court and interested parties, and guide the personal representative through administration and closing.
Texas Probate Matters We Handle
We represent clients in independent administrations, dependent administrations, muniment-of-title proceedings, determinations of heirship, estates in which the decedent left no will, small-estate matters, and disputes involving executors, administrators, heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, or estate property. The correct procedure depends on the will, the assets and debts, the identity of the heirs, and whether the interested parties agree.
What Happens During Probate?
A typical matter begins by reviewing the will, death certificate, family information, property, debts, and beneficiary designations. The application is then filed in the proper Texas court. After the required notice and hearing, the court may admit the will to probate, determine heirship, and appoint a personal representative. The executor or administrator must then qualify, identify and protect estate property, address creditors, prepare any required inventory or affidavit, distribute assets, and complete the administration.
Probate With or Without a Will
A valid will can identify beneficiaries and nominate an independent executor, but a will does not avoid probate merely because it exists. When there is no will, Texas intestacy law determines the heirs, and the court may require an heirship proceeding and appointment of an administrator. We evaluate the available procedure and explain the practical consequences before filing.
Muniment of Title and Other Alternatives
Some estates may qualify for probate of a will as a muniment of title, which can transfer property without an ongoing administration. Other circumstances may permit a small-estate affidavit, affidavit of heirship, or a non-probate transfer. These alternatives are fact-specific and are not appropriate for every estate, particularly when debts, title problems, disputes, or administrative work remain.
Duties of an Executor or Administrator
A personal representative owes legal duties to the estate and its beneficiaries. Those responsibilities may include safeguarding property, keeping accurate records, giving required notices, handling claims, paying authorized expenses, filing tax returns when required, avoiding conflicts of interest, and distributing property according to the will or Texas law. Early legal guidance can prevent delay and personal exposure.
Speak With a North Texas Probate Attorney
Every estate presents different family, property, debt, and court issues. Contact Andrew Dunlap Attorneys, PLLC at 972-807-6357 or schedule a consultation online. Providing the will, death certificate, property information, and a list of known family members before the consultation will help us evaluate the next step.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Reading it or submitting an inquiry does not create an attorney-client relationship.