Rosenberg, TX Probate Attorney

If you are visiting this page because you have lost a loved one, first of all let us offer you our condolences. Losing someone you care about can feel like a lonely, isolating experience, and having to deal with the ensuing legal processes can seem impossible in this state of mind. Working with our Rosenberg probate attorney means that you are not alone to take on the legal workload without experience and with the heavy weight of grief.

Attorney Michelle E. Murphy has served clients for over 20 years. She can ease the process of probate so that you can have access to the estate left behind by your loved one without the hassle. Reach out to schedule a free initial consultation and learn how we can usher you through this process while you focus on properly grieving and commemorating your loved one! 

What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process by which the will is submitted to and validated by the court or, in the absence of a will, the estate of the deceased is divided according to the law. If there is an executor named in the will, they are responsible for administration of the estate. Probate exists in order to ensure that property is handled properly in order to prevent unfair asset-grabbing and legal entanglements.  

There are many types of probate in Texas, and the type of probate that you experience will depend entirely on the type of estate you are trying to distribute. Independent administration, for example, takes place when there is an executor of the estate named in the will and beneficiaries are in agreement, while dependent administration happens when there is not an executor. There is also the option for a small estate affidavit, which occurs when the estate’s cumulative assets are worth less than $75,000.

There are several steps to probate, though the probate process can vary depending on the specifics of your circumstances. Generally, however, the process will look something like this:

1. Submit the will to the probate court for validation
2. Notify creditors and beneficiaries
3. Inventory debts and assets left behind by the estate
4. Pay off debts and distribute assets according to the will
5. File and pay taxes
6. Close the estate

Some assets are exempt from probate, such as shared homestead property and wealth protected by trusts. Our Rosenberg probate attorney can help you with any questions you have regarding these assets. 

How Can A Rosenberg Probate Attorney Help Me?

Probate is a much easier experience when you work with a professional. There are several drawbacks to probate, especially when you try to take care of it by yourself. Our probate attorney can make your life much easier because:

• Probate is complicated, particularly when you are not schooled in the legalities.
• Probate takes a long time, and the last thing you need during your time of grief is a lengthy and complicated legal process.
• Probate opens you up to risk of litigation, particularly if you make a mistake or another beneficiary believes that you are not acting properly or in good faith.
• Probate can cause family strife, especially if someone is not satisfied with how the assets are being distributed.

Our probate lawyer can ensure that everything is divided fairly and according to legal regulations.  

The Law Office Of Michelle E. Murphy Can Guide You Through Probate

Michelle E. Murphy has been serving clients for over two decades, helping families through the probate process so that they can focus on supporting each other and honoring their lost loved one. The firm can help you through the legal process so that you can come out the other side with confidence. Reach out to schedule a free initial consultation and learn how she can help you through this trying time.