Experienced Guidance Through Estate Administration And Disputes
Probate is the process of declaring a person’s will valid, paying creditors and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries in accordance with the wishes expressed in the decedent’s will. If an estate has significant and varied assets, the probate process can be complex. Things that must be accounted for during the probate process include:
- Liquid assets
- Real estate
- Personal property, including furniture, jewelry and other items
- Retirement accounts and pensions
- Life insurance policies
- Investments
- Debt
It is not always necessary to hire a lawyer. In fact, many assets, such as bank accounts, retirement accounts and life insurance policies, pass to the proper beneficiary without going through probate. These are known as payable-on-death assets because the beneficiaries were designated at the time the account was created.
Hiring a probate lawyer is more common when the assets in an estate are more significant and complex, such as a small business that will be passed to one or more benefactors. Estate plans that include trusts are often more complicated, and it may make sense to enlist an experienced probate lawyer to protect your interests. A probate attorney can also help resolve disputes.
Contesting A Will
While many probate processes go smoothly, some do not. You may be a benefactor who feels you did not receive a fair deal on property and assets. Maybe your loved one suffered from mental incapacity at the time the will was drafted, or they were influenced by another when designating gifts. In these or other circumstances, you may be able to contest the will.
I represent beneficiaries or interested parties who wish to contest a will, or executors who wish to defend against a contested will. I have extensive experience guiding heirs through probate issues, and I would be happy to strive for a favorable outcome.
You Will Stay Informed From Start To Finish
When you enlist the services of The Law Office of J. Grant Stevens, you will work directly with an attorney who has assisted clients in Montgomery County since 1995. Whether you are an executor who is in charge of administering an estate, or you are a benefactor or interested party who wishes to dispute an aspect of the will, I will be by your side throughout the probate process, offering both legal and emotional support and ensuring that the estate is administered properly.
I, attorney J. Grant Stevens, emphasize clear communication with my clients from the initial consultation through the resolution of a case. You will always remain up to date on the status of your probate matter. You will be informed of all options and aware of all possible outcomes in cases involving disputes.
Ready To Help You Through Probate And Estate Disputes
You deserve to work with a skilled lawyer who knows Texas inheritance law. Contact me online or by phone at 936-539-9797 to tell me more about your estate planning needs.