Denton County Estate Administration Attorney
When someone you love passes away, many questions arise. If there is a will, does it need to be recognized as genuine by the local probate court? What happens if there is no will? How much does the probate process cost? Must a personal representative of the estate be appointed by the probate court? How long will the process take? How is the title to the deceased person's property changed to the name of the ultimate recipient? What debts have to be paid, and who is liable for them? What is required when property is in a trust? What if minor children are involved?
At the Law Office of Ruth Brock, I have more than 30 years of experience guiding families through probate. Recognizing that this is a difficult time for you and your family, I will patiently answer all your questions and work hard to make the process as smooth as possible.
The Probate Process
A formal probate of the deceased's estate may or may not be necessary. In Texas, several informal probate procedures may be available in lieu of a full, formal court probate proceeding. In some instances, neither formal nor informal probate is required.
When meeting with you, I will examine the decedent's legal documents, such as a will or trust, and listen carefully to the goals you define for your loved one's estate. Based on the information you provide, I will determine the appropriate procedure and guide you through every step of the process — from gathering the assets of the estate and the payment of any debts or taxes to the final distribution of the estate to the heirs or beneficiaries.
If you are the personal representative of the estate, I can help you perform your job with confidence. I pride myself on offering knowledge and support to honor the financial, ethical and legal obligations that come with this responsibility. Some of the probate processes with which I can assist include:
- Letters Testamentary
- Letters of Administration
- Affidavits of Heirship
- Determination of Heirship
- Small Estate Affidavit
Trust Transfers Without Probate
As your lawyer, I can also help if the decedent's property is in a trust. Having drafted countless trusts, I can review the trust instrument and advise the successor trustee or the beneficiaries of the appropriate obligations and actions.
Compassionate Legal Guidance
Contact the Law Office of Ruth Brock when a loved one or friend has passed away for advice on how to handle the deceased person's affairs.
