Large estates rarely move through probate on autopilot. Business interests, real estate in several counties or states, estate tax filings, and family disagreements all add steps where mistakes are expensive.
Many attorneys handle probate cases occasionally, learning and relearning the process with each case – at their clients’ expense. These attorneys often miss opportunities to streamline the process or fail to spot potential problems that could create expensive complications later.
We regularly take over probate cases that were started by other lawyers or by families who tried to handle the process themselves. These cases typically cost more because we must correct previous mistakes, amend improper filings, or address issues that could have been avoided with proper handling from the beginning.
Probate involves specific tasks that must be completed in the correct order with precise timing. There are risks associated with completing these tasks incorrectly and separate risks from missing deadlines entirely. This is why it makes sense to work with attorneys who focus on probate rather than those who handle it occasionally.
We handle all aspects of probate administration, from initial court filings through final distribution of assets. This includes preparing and filing necessary documents, managing court deadlines, and ensuring all legal requirements are met.
We advise personal representatives on their duties and responsibilities, helping them navigate complex decisions while protecting them from personal liability. We explain what must be done, when it must be completed, and how to document everything properly.
We coordinate the estate’s federal estate tax return (Form 706) when one is required or advisable, along with the fiduciary income tax returns (Form 1041), so tax deadlines and probate deadlines line up.
We keep operating businesses running during administration, work through co-owner and buy-sell agreement issues, and handle the sale or distribution of real estate across counties and states.
We handle all court appearances, prepare witnesses for hearings, and manage the formal aspects of probate proceedings. Our familiarity with local courts and procedures helps move cases through the system efficiently.
We prepare all required legal documents, including applications, notices, inventories, accountings, and distribution orders. Proper document preparation prevents delays and reduces the risk of court rejection.
Our administration work centers on estates with significant assets or complicating factors: business interests, real estate in more than one county or state, family conflict, or tax filings. These are the estates where an early mistake costs the most.
Our focus on probate law means we stay current on changes in statutes, court rules, and local procedures. We know which judges prefer certain approaches, which clerks have specific requirements, and how to navigate the system efficiently.
We start by reviewing the assets, debts, tax position, and family situation, then lay out a plan and a realistic timeline. We then handle all legal requirements while keeping the family informed about progress and next steps.
Probate administration requires attention to detail, knowledge of legal requirements, and experience with court procedures. Mistakes can create delays, increase costs, and sometimes result in personal liability for executors and administrators.
If you are the executor of a large or complicated Texas estate, contact our firm. We will review the estate, identify the issues likely to cause trouble, and handle the legal work from application to final distribution.
