Scheduling Open
24x7
Location
335 T C Jester Blvd
Houston, TX 77007

Probate Litigation

Probate litigation often involves:

  • Litigation to dispute the validity of wills on the basis of incapacity of the testator, undue influence over the testator, defective execution of the will, forgery, etc.
  • Trust litigation to challenge or defend the construction of a trust or the actions of a trustee.
  • Will construction proceedings on behalf of fiduciaries or beneficiaries to clarify ambiguity in a will.
  • Fiduciary litigation to challenge the actions of an executor or trustee in managing the financial affairs of the estate or trust.
  • Accounting proceedings to challenge or defend the management of an estate or trust.
  • Fiduciary removal proceedings to remove a trustee, remove an executor, or remove a guardian because of misconduct or incompetence.
  • Spousal rights proceedings to question or establish the rights of a spouse to inherit, and to analyze the validity of prenuptial and antenuptial agreements.
  • Kinship proceedings to question or establish the inheritance rights of more distant relatives.
  • Claims proceedings to establish who has a claim on assets of an estate (such as business partners or creditors).
  • Disputes over life insurance beneficiary designation forms.

There are specific time limits and procedures for bringing claims. The Houston probate court focuses on carrying out the decedent’s wishes and ensuring that the Texas probate laws are followed.

Avoiding Probate Litigation When Possible

While there are valid reasons for contesting a will, the burdens on a family after a loved one’s death can feel immense. It is a difficult time for those managing both their grief and the legal aspects of an estate. Fearing that your loved one’s final wishes are not being carried out can make the situation even more complicated. Many families wonder what rights they have and what can be done. You may not want to get into a legal battle—it is a common worry that litigation will be costly and time-consuming, or that the effort will be all for nothing in the end.

Our experienced probate litigation attorneys in Houston, Texas strive to help you and your family resolve your loved one’s estate as effectively as possible. Our legal team can be your advocate in court, working to ensure that your loved one’s wishes are carried out and your rights are protected.

Litigating Probate Matters When Necessary

We have represented clients in will contests, sometimes in support of a propounded will and on other occasions to object to a will.  We have also participated in proceedings to construe and reform wills, in contested accounting proceedings and in tax proceedings. 

Our probate litigation attorneys enjoy a reputation for sound advice, efficiency, and practicality. Our first and foremost goal will always be to achieve the best possible result for our clients. Quite frequently, we are able to settle such proceedings without trials after taking into account the merits of the positions advanced by respective parties and the tax rules applicable.

Why Choose Us?

Local Expertise: With a focus on probate and assisting clients in Houston, we understand local peculiarities and leverage our established network to expedite the probate process.

Vast Experience: Our attorneys bring years of dedicated experience in navigating Harris County’s probate system.

Client-Centered Approach: We recognize the emotional stress often associated with probate administration. Our objective is to alleviate this stress by providing you with top-notch legal support.

Contact us today to arrange a FREE consultation and make the probate process simpler for you.

Our Houston Probate Attorneys provide a full range of probate services to our clients, including helping with probate disputes and litigation. Affordable rates, fixed fees, and payment plans are available. We provide step-by-step instructions, guidance, checklists, and more for completing the probate process. We have years of combined experience we can use to support and guide you with probate and estate matters.

FREE CONSULTATION

Disclaimer:  The content of this website is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice and should not be acted upon without consulting a qualified probate attorney.

FREE CONSULTATION

  • Will Cannot Be Probated Before Trial on the Will Contest

    Will Cannot Be Probated Before Trial on the Will Contest

    When a loved one passes away leaving a will, the family often wants to proceed with probate as quickly as possible to settle the estate. In cases where someone contests the will’s validity, the natural question arises: If the will appears valid on its face, why can’t the court admit it to probate now and…


  • Joint Account Alone Does not Disqualify Executor in Texas Probate

    Joint Account Alone Does not Disqualify Executor in Texas Probate

    If an executor is appointed to administer a probate estate in Texas, can they be disqualified from serving if they had a joint checking account with the decedent during the decedent’s lifetime? This is a common fact pattern. It is common to set up joint bank accounts as part of an estate plan, so that…


  • Examining the Finality of Probate Court Orders in Texas

    Examining the Finality of Probate Court Orders in Texas

    Probate proceedings in Texas often feature multiple complex stages and interim rulings before finality is reached. This multi-phase process aims to fully and fairly administer estates, but it also creates potential complications when it comes to appealing orders issued along the way. Since appellate courts want to discourage piecemeal appeals before probate completion, only certain…