Texas City, TX Probate Attorney

If you have recently lost a loved one, our Texas City probate attorney Michelle E. Murphy wants to first extend her condolences, but also offer her services as an attorney who cares about what happens to you next. Losing someone you love is never an easy thing to go through, even if they have left behind a proper and full estate plan that spells out their wishes. If they didn’t leave behind an estate plan with a will or trust, things can become more complicated and probate may be necessary. Probate is a Texas court process that can be extremely complex. The assistance of a probate attorney who is experienced with Texas probate laws is crucial during this overwhelming time! Let The Law Offices of Michelle E. Murphy help you navigate probate court so you can gain some peace of mind and move forward without stress. Call today to request a free consultation. 

Texas City Probate Attorney

If you have recently lost a loved one, our Texas City probate attorney Michelle E. Murphy wants to first extend her condolences, but also offer her services as an attorney who cares about what happens to you next. Losing someone you love is never an easy thing to go through, even if they have left behind a proper and full estate plan that spells out their wishes. If they didn’t leave behind an estate plan with a will or trust, things can become more complicated and probate may be necessary. Probate is a Texas court process that can be extremely complex. The assistance of a probate attorney who is experienced with Texas probate laws is crucial during this overwhelming time! Let The Law Offices of Michelle E. Murphy help you navigate probate court so you can gain some peace of mind and move forward without stress. Call today to request a free consultation. 

What exactly is probate?

Probate is the process of proving a will in court and carrying out its contents in order to legally distribute a deceased person’s possessions to their beneficiaries. The Texas Estates Code says that a will is not effective to prove title to or the right to possession of any property disposed of by the will until the will is admitted to probate; essentially, that means that even if the will is clear and legally valid, probate still has to occur before the inheritance can be transferred (unless certain exceptions apply). 

The process of probate will require the submission of the will (if one existed) to probate court, notification to beneficiaries, collection, inventory, and appraisal of all assets, settling of outstanding debt, filing of last of tax returns, and payment of court fees. Then assets will be distributed. 

What is so bad about the probate process?

Probate has a bad rap because not only is it complicated, but it’s expensive and takes a long time to complete. In the state of Texas it can take anywhere from 6-12 months to get through. It is also rather intrusive, as probate is typically a very public process where maintaining privacy is a challenge. 

In the instance of a loved one’s death, when they failed to create a clear will for their assets, you will have to deal with the consequences when you should be grieving properly. Any mistakes made could result in you being sued by creditors or even in tension developing amongst your family over how the process unfolds. That is why consulting with a Texas City probate lawyer is so important – they can prevent these mistakes and resolve any conflict that may arise!

Why do I need to work with a Texas City probate lawyer? 

The paperwork and legal nuances surrounding probate court can be a heavy burden, especially in the midst of mourning someone you love. It is in your best interest to obtain an experienced, compassionate probate lawyer who will listen to you, answer your questions, guide you each step of the way, handle the paperwork, ensure you have proper documentation prepared, and clarify any remaining legal questions you may have. Working with Michelle E. Murphy can save yourself time and hassle. 

How The Law Offices of Michelle E. Murphy can help you 

Attorney Michelle E. Murphy, our firm’s lead Texas City probate lawyer, has over 20 years of experience with probate law, so she knows what she is doing! Her knowledge can give you an advantage throughout the probate process to help you reach your desired outcome as quickly and painlessly (and cost-effectively) as possible. She will help you find the best route of probate to take and ensure that you are as prepared as you can be. Don’t wait to get the personal and caring legal guidance you need; call today for a free consultation and let us take the burden off of you!