In Texas, there are two types of probate: independent and dependent. Independent probate is when the decedent left a will that names an executor, and dependent probate is when the decedent did not leave a will or the will does not name an executor. If you are named as an executor in a will, you...KEEP READING

When it comes to estate planning, there are a lot of forms that need to be filled out. And if you’re not an attorney, you may be wondering if filling in these forms is the practice of law in Texas. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the issue of filling in...KEEP READING

If you need to file an affidavit of heirship in Texas, there are a few things you’ll need to do first. First, find a notary public or licensed attorney who can notarize the affidavit. Then, gather all of the required documents, which include a death certificate, a copy of the will (if there is one),...KEEP READING

Appointing a guardian for your child is one of the most important decisions you can make as a parent. It’s a decision that is often made in the event that something happens to you or your spouse. There are many factors to consider when making this decision. You want to appoint someone who is responsible...KEEP READING

In Texas, if you want to contest a will or trust on the grounds of undue influence, you must be able to show that the person who created the document was unduly influenced by another person. This can be a difficult burden to meet, but it is not impossible. If you suspect that someone unduly...KEEP READING

In Texas, as in other states, a testator – the person who made the will – must be of “sound mind” to make a valid will. This means that the testator must understand that he or she is making a will, knows the natural objects of his or her bounty, and understand the disposition he...KEEP READING

Many people don’t know that you can cash a check made out to a deceased person in Texas prior to probate. The state has what’s called a “pay-on-death” provision, which allows for the cashing of checks made out to deceased persons. While this may seem like a simple process, there are actually a few things...KEEP READING

If a person dies without having made a will in Texas, they are said to have died “intestate.” This can have a few different effects on the distribution of their estate. In general, if you die intestate in Texas, your assets will go to your spouse and children first. If you have neither of these,...KEEP READING

Kreig LLC is pleased to announce the addition of three new attorneys to our probate and estate planning practice. Kara Kellogg (San Antonio) Kara Kellogg Kara is an attorney who currently assists her clients in matters related to probate, estate planning, and real estate. She has also represented plaintiffs in other areas of the law,...KEEP READING

If a person dies without any heirs, their estate is called intestate. This means that the state will decide what happens to the estate. The laws surrounding intestate estates can be complex and vary from state to state. In Texas, if a person dies without any heirs on either the paternal or maternal side, their...KEEP READING