When someone in Texas dies, with or without a will, the Texas probate court where the deceased resided has authority to oversee administration of the estate. The person responsible for managing the estate through the probate process is known as the personal representative of the estate.
If the deceased died with a will, his or her personal representative is usually the executor named in the will. If there was no will, any interested party can petition the probate court for authority to administer the estate. Family members usually perform the role of personal representative, but not always.
A person's estate includes property such as:
- Cash
- Bank accounts
- Real estate
- Stocks
- Bonds
- Life insurance proceeds, if payable to the estate
- Retirement accounts
- Vehicles titled in the deceased's name
Texas probate law requires the personal representative to identify assets and conduct an inventory. Valid claims against the estate must be paid in full if possible, and any remaining assets should be distributed according to either the provisions of the will or according to Texas' laws governing intestate distribution.
The probate process can be intimidating, especially for larger estates. An experienced probate attorney helps you navigate the process by:
- Explaining the probate process
- Initiating the probate process
- Providing notice to creditors
- Inventorying estate assets
- Lawfully distributing estate assets
The attorneys at the Peterson Law Group are experienced in handling estates of all sizes and are here to assist you at any time. If you need help administering an estate, contact an experienced Bryan, Texas estate planning attorney at the Peterson Law Group. Call us today at 979-703-7014 to schedule a consultation.