Representation For Settling The Estate Or Resolving Probate Disputes
The probate process in Texas can be streamlined and simple or long and complicated, depending on the estate, the will and the people involved. In either case, an experienced probate law attorney can protect your interests and expedite the outcome.
The law firm of Pursley, McNamara & Flint, PLLC, provides knowledgeable and efficient probate and estate administration services. Our attorneys handle estate-related matters in Fort Bend County and neighboring counties (Brazoria, Harris, Galveston). We also welcome inquiries from elsewhere in Texas or out of state regarding the estate of a relative who lived in Missouri City, Sugar Land or the Houston area. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Sugar Land Probate Attorneys
We assist the executor or personal representative in all the statutory duties of probate, estate and trust administration:
- Opening the estate
- Marshaling and valuing assets
- Paying debts and taxes
- Locating heirs and making asset distributions
- Trust distributions or investments
- Accounting and reporting
If the will specifically provides for independent administration, that appointed administrator can conduct transactions and settle affairs of the estate without court approval at every step. We can advise independent administrators on legal and financial matters to close the estate as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.
At the other extreme, Texas probate law can be very complicated regarding intestate succession (a person who died without a will). Our attorneys can counsel the personal representative at every step, including probate court appearances or legal challenges, to resolve problems and wind down the estate.
Will Contests And Estate Administration Disputes
With or without a will, the probate process can be disrupted by disagreements or accusations. These disputes can lead to divisive rifts among heirs and even full-fledged litigation:
- Will contests – Fraud, undue influence, lack of testamentary capacity
- Missing assets – Money or property taken from the estate
- Contested guardianship or conservatorship
- Breach of fiduciary duty – Theft, under-the-table deals or other impropriety by the executor
Justin Flint and Mallorie McNamara are capable trial lawyers who can represent beneficiaries, excluded heirs, executors/administrators or wards in contested proceedings. In many cases, though, they can intervene to keep these conflicts out of court and preserve family relationships. Texas law allows for resolution of estate disputes through family agreements – as long as every heir signs off on the negotiated outcome.
Full-Service Representation In Estate Matters
We can assist and advise executors or assume the fiduciary role and carry out all the duties. We offer a FREE initial consultation, including evenings and weekends by appointment. Call our Missouri City estate administration attorneys at (713) 766-4326, or contact us online.