Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate in accordance with their will or, if there is no will, the Texas laws of intestacy. The following are the general steps involved in the probate process in Texas:
Filing the application: The first step is to file an application with the probate court in the county where the deceased person lived. The application must include the original will, if there is one, and a certified copy of the death certificate.
Notice to interested parties: The executor or administrator of the estate must give notice to all interested parties, including heirs, beneficiaries, and creditors. This is usually done by publishing a notice in a local newspaper and sending notices by mail.
Inventory and appraisal: The executor or administrator must prepare an inventory of the deceased person’s assets and have them appraised by a professional appraiser. This inventory must be filed with the court.
Payment of debts: The executor or administrator must identify and pay any debts owed by the deceased person, including taxes, funeral expenses, and outstanding bills.
Distribution of assets: After all debts have been paid, the executor or administrator must distribute the remaining assets according to the will or, if there is no will, according to Texas laws of intestacy.
Closing the estate: Once all assets have been distributed, the executor or administrator must file a final accounting with the court and request that the estate be closed.
This is why it’s important to call Rashelle Fetty at (214) 546-5746 to assess your probate needs. Rashelle is experienced and loves problem solving for families.