Dependent Probate Administration in Texas

Dependent Probate Administration


Before filing the probate application, one has to make a choice between dependent or independent probate administration.

The term “dependent administration” refers to the probate being administered by the personal representative with direct supervision by the court.  As explained below, dependent administration is an extremely restrictive method for administering an estate. This differs from “independent administration” where the court has very little involvement.

The Dependent Administrator’s Powers

With a dependent administration, the personal representative’s powers as dependent administrator are very narrow.

The dependent administrator has to obtain a court order to perform most acts that bind the estate.  For example, the dependent administrator has to obtain a court order to review any obligation owed to the estate, purchase or exchange property, take claim or property to pay debts, settle the estate’s debts, abandon worthless property, sell or transfer assets, borrow money, receive compensation for serving as the administrator, etc.

These and other restrictions on the dependent administrator’s powers are set out in several sections in the Texas Estates Code.

When is Dependent Administration Used?

Dependent administration is the default method for administering a probate estate.  It is used if the decedent’s will did not provide for independent administrator or, in the absence of a will, all of the heirs do not consent to independent administration.

Dependent administrations can be useful if:

  • The estate has more debts than assets or
  • There are likely to be disputes between the heirs or others as to distributions.

Both of these circumstances put the independent administrator in the unenviable position of having to make choices that could result in liability for the estate or the independent administrator personally.  Dependent administrations may be better in these cases, as the court order in a dependent administration may be used as a shield to protect against this type of liability.  Dependent administration may also avoid protracted litigation involving these issues.

We’ll consider independent administration 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.

We can help with your probate matter.

    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.