Compassionate Probate Attorneys Committed To Honoring Your Loved One’s Legacy
Losing a loved one is never easy. It is a time filled with grief and reflection. Yet, it also brings the opportunity to honor their legacy by ensuring that their final wishes are fulfilled. Your willingness to take on this task speaks volumes about the love and trust they placed in you.
At the San Antonio law firm of Deffenbaugh & Lange, P.L.L.C., we provide skilled and empathetic representation for those navigating the probate and estate administration process anywhere in Texas. We are a Christian faith-based firm founded on values of compassion, integrity and empathy. We understand the emotional and legal complexities of probate proceedings. With more than 50 years of combined experience, our probate attorneys can provide the trusted legal support you need during this challenging time.
What Is Probate In Texas?
Probate is the legal process of handling a loved one’s estate after they pass away. The process begins with admitting their validly executed will to probate, securing judicial determination of heirship and accomplishing asset distribution. In Texas, probate involves several steps, including:
- Filing the necessary applications in the appropriate
court. - Conducting and filing an asset inventory
- Notifying creditors and beneficiaries
- Paying debts and taxes after death
- Distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries
Not all estate assets are subject to probate; some, like life insurance policies and retirement accounts with named beneficiaries, are transferred outside of probate. Our lawyers can help you understand which assets are and are not subject to probate.
There are many nuances to probate in Texas. The proceedings might involve independent administration of the estate, which requires less court involvement, or dependent administration probate for more involved estates. Small estate probate may also be available for estates that meet certain criteria.
Estate Administration And Probate Alternatives
While probate focuses on assets that require court supervision to distribute, estate administration involves managing other aspects of the estate that are not subject to probate. Trusts are a common tool for transferring assets outside the probate process.
A unique alternative to probate in Texas is to have a validly executed will admitted as a “muniment of title.” This simplified process can be used during the probate of a will if there are no unpaid debts, aside from those debts secured by real property.
Our probate attorneys can help you with all aspects of probate and estate administration to make the process as smooth and seamless as possible. Additionally, if you are currently considering an estate plan, our lawyers can discuss estate planning strategies to avoid probate.
Complex Estates
We are highly skilled in managing complex estates that involve multifaceted elements such as business assets, significant tax liabilities and other intricate financial situations. We understand the challenges posed by these estates, and we excel at developing tailored strategies to navigate them successfully.
Our team brings a unique skill set to this niche area. Our co-founder, Douglas Deffenbaugh, holds both a master’s in business administration and a Certified Public Accountant’s License. These credentials provide immense value and peace of mind for our clients. Our ability to integrate legal advice with a strong background in business and financial strategy sets us apart.
Preserve Your Loved One’s Legacy With Our Help
Trust Deffenbaugh & Lange, P.L.L.C., with your probate administration concerns. We would be honored to help you preserve your loved one’s legacy by fulfilling their wishes in the most respectful and efficient manner possible. We value building close, long-lasting personal relationships with our clients, and we will take the time to connect with you on a personal level.
Get started by calling 210-943-9982 or reaching out online.