In some states like California, where probate costs can run into tens of thousands of dollars, avoiding probate is crucial for preserving assets. However, by comparison, probate in Texas does not involve extensive costs. Nevertheless, the best plan is to discuss the assets and value of an estate with an experienced Texas wills and probate lawyer. Many options are available. Deciding whether a trust is of benefit is another option, in which case the beneficiaries avoid probate altogether.
In Texas, the term probate means the same thing as probate matter, proceeding in probate and proceedings for probate. Probate refers to process of dealing with the estate belonging to someone who is deceased and determining the following:
The Texas Probate Code lays the ground rules for how Texas conducts probate proceedings.
Probate of an estate where the individual died intestate (without a will) generally involves greater costs because sorting out the estate involves more work. If the estate’s value is less than $50,000, which does not include exempt property and the homestead, a Texas probate lawyer can see if the estate meets all qualifications to file a small estate affidavit, which is typically less expensive than probate administration for most inheritances.
Anyone with an estate can benefit from discussing options with an experienced probate lawyer in Texas. Having an estate plan usually makes dealing with an estate easier for surviving family.