When someone passes away, probate administration begins, regardless of the existence of a will. During the probate process, a probate lawyer assists and guides the will’s executor or, in the absence of a will, the estate administrator in their duties during the probate administration process.
What is a Texas Probate Lawyer?
When someone passes, the probate lawyer’s job is to assist in disseminating the deceased’s assets. The probate lawyer assists and works alongside the decedent’s executor or estate administrator as a legal guide.
In some cases, where no one is more appropriate to perform the duties, a probate lawyer may be assigned as estate administrator and would solely perform the administration or executive duties. These may include:
- Property Accounting and Evaluation
- Settling an Estate’s Debts
- Paying Taxes Owed by the Estate or the Decedent
- Disseminating Assets to the Decedent’s Beneficiaries
What Are the Responsibilities of a Texas Probate Lawyer During the Probate Process?
Some other responsibilities for a probate attorney may include:
- Locating, securing, and evaluating a decedent’s estate
- Finding and collecting insurance policies
- Appraising a decedent’s assets or subjecting them to appraisal
- Managing the finances of the estate during the process
- Determining debt validity and advising payments
- Filing required court documents
- Securing tax accounts or working with accountants during the final income tax filing
Do I Need a Probate Lawyer in Texas?
If you have been placed in a position where a loved one has a large estate, with or without a will, you may consider consulting with a probate lawyer. The process of being an estate administrator is an arduous one. Ask yourself the following:
- Do I have a solid grasp of my state’s estate laws?
- Have I handled the probate of an estate previously?
- Are the surviving family members likely to get along?
- Is there sufficient money to pay the estate’s debts?
- Is there a will or trust in place?
If you have a tough time answering any of the above questions, you should likely speak with a probate lawyer for an initial consultation.
Can I Speak to a Probate Lawyer in Texas?
The experienced attorneys at Rainey & Rainey, Attorneys at Law, LP, would love to speak with you regarding consultation in your probate case. If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of our esteemed attorneys, call (254) 457-5083 and schedule an appointment. The lawyers at Rainey & Rainey, Attorneys at Law, LP, have over four decades of experience in elder law and estate planning, so they will be able to help you with anything you need regarding probate law.