Settlement Agreements

Family Settlement Agreements in Texas

Family settlement agreements are most often used to resolve probate litigation without trial. They are often used in will contests, will construction lawsuits, claims and trust modification lawsuits.  They can help avoid litigation costs and uncertainty associated with trial.

A family settlement agreement is also useful in situations where there are multiple wills or where a will contest is contemplated by a heir.

Family settlement agreements can be used to avoid probate altogether in some cases.  That is why we included the topic in this section of the book.  

To accomplish this, they can be used to divide probate property as the heirs and other interested parties desire.  This is true even if the decedent had a will. The family can usually agree on some other disposition of property, even if it is contrary to the terms of the will.  

Family Settlement Agreements are Favored in Texas

A family settlement agreement is a preferred alternative method of administration of an estate in Texas.  Section 154.002 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code defines the Texas public policy on family settlement agreements:

It is the policy of this state to encourage the peaceable resolution of disputes, with special consideration given to disputes involving the parent/child relationship, including mediation of issues involving conservatorship, possession and support of children, and the early settlement of pending litigation through voluntary settlement procedures.

The Texas courts have affirmed this preference for settlement agreements in probate matters.

Requirements for a Family Settlement Agreement in Texas

Family settlement in Texas have to address three basic criteria:

  1. the decedent’s right to make a testamentary disposition,
  2. the beneficiaries’ right to convey their rights, and
  3. balancing those competing rights by requiring an agreement to an alternative distribution plan.

Texas law provides several requirements that must be met to establish a family settlement agreement in Texas. These requirements include that:

  1. The agreement does not have to be in writing, but the terms must be clear.
  2. All interested parties must agree to distribution.
  3. All interested parties must be over 18, as a minor could not be bound by a family settlement agreement.

If these requirements are met, all beneficiaries by signing the agreement are then estopped or barred from challenging the agreement later on, and the agreement is enforceable as any other written contract.

It should also be noted that any claims of fraud or other challenges to the agreement by the parties have to be made within four years are they are barred.

Tax Implications of Family Settlement Agreements

The tax implications of family settlement agreements are particularly important.  Distributions that are different than those called for in the will and/or intestacy laws can trigger taxable gain or loss. The parties should factor this into any agreement they are contemplating.  

Also, the terms of the agreement should include language to take advantage of exchange treatment, to lock in capital or ordinary gain or loss treatment were desired, and to maximize allowable deductions and credits.

Depending on how it is drafted, the family settlement agreement can also have significant estate and gift tax consequences.  One should consult with their probate attorney about these nuanced issues.  

If there is a will, another option is to probate the will as a muniment of title. Let’s consider that topic next.  Click here to continue reading.  >>>>


Hire an Experienced Probate Attorney

Do you need help with a probate matter in Texas?  We are experienced probate attorneys who represent clients with sensitive probate matters.  If so, please give us a call at 800-521-0230 or use the contact form below to see how we can help.

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    At Kreig LLC, we understand that no two situations are the same. While we draw on decades of legal experience handling cases similar to yours, we also work to provide individualized representation that is tailored to your unique circumstances and goals. Our probate attorneys are responsive and consistently available for our clients, as well as steadfast legal advocates—both in and out of the courtroom.