What happens when there is a dispute between parties regarding the validity of a life insurance beneficiary designation? This scenario raises complex legal questions surrounding conflicting claims and the rightful entitlement to life insurance proceeds. The solution lies within the realm of “interpleader” lawsuits. These legal actions offer a remedy when parties notify the life...KEEP READING
This case study involves a widow who was seeking assistance to access her late husband’s bank accounts. Despite presenting an affidavit of death and a death certificate and being the successor on the account, she was told by the bank that she needed a letter testamentary to access the account. This situation was complicated by...KEEP READING
When a person passes away, their will typically outlines the distribution of their estate. However, there may be instances where a will is declared invalid due to a variety of reasons such as lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, or improper execution. When this occurs, the distribution of the decedent’s estate becomes a complex process....KEEP READING
Hire an Experienced Probate Attorney Do you need help with a probate matter in Houston-metro area or the surrounding communities? We are experienced probate attorneys who represent clients with sensitive probate matters. If so, please give us a call us at 281-219-9090 or use the contact form below to see how we can help.KEEP READING
Preliminary Probate MattersAbout ProbateReporting the DeathThe Decedent’s Body or RemainsThe Texas Death CertificateFuneral Costs & Last Expenses in TexasThe Decedent’s BillsSecuring the Decedent’s PropertyTemporary Probate Administration inInformation to Locate After DeathThe Decedent’s Final PaycheckAccessing the Decedent’s Safe Deposit BoxBank and Mortgage Account InformationThe Decedent’s Rental DwellingHiring a Probate AttorneyPre-Filing Probate ConsiderationsDependent Probate AdministrationIndependent Probate AdministrationSelecting...KEEP READING
CNBC recently ran an article entitled This is what happens to unpaid debts when a person passes away. The article cites several financial planners who suggest that debts do not have to be paid. This is a common misconception. So what actually happens to unpaid debts when a Texas resident passes away? About Probate in...KEEP READING
A durable power of attorney is a standard estate planning document. It is a powerful legal document that grants an agent broad authority to act on behalf of the principal. Unfortunately, this type of document is often prone to fraud and abuse. The Gardner v. Majors, No. 10-21-00306-CV (Tex. Ct. App.–Waco 2023) case provides an...KEEP READING
Should someone have the right to dispose of their property when they die as they see fit? Should the law impose a requirement to leave loved ones with equal shares? These competing policies have found their way into Texas probate law. Texas law used to provide for forced heirship, which resulted in equal shares and...KEEP READING
Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience. The process of settling their estate is complicated. This can put the survivors under quite a bit of stress. The stress often results in people acting and taking actions that they would not normally take. This can include everything from cutting corners, skirting even the most...KEEP READING
