When you lose a loved one, it can be a confusing and tough time. Our firm provides compassion during this time and ensures that all clients understand the steps to move forward to distribute their loved ones’ estate.
What is probate?
Probate is a legal process where a court oversees the administration of a descendant’s assets and liabilities either with or without a will.
How long does this take?
This process can take a matter of months or several years to be completed.
Where does this happen?
An estate is probated in the county and state in which the descendant lived at the time of death.
What is subject to probate?
Many of the assets owned by descendant are subject to probate administration when a person dies. Assets that are in joint tenancy with right of survivorship, in trust or with a beneficiary designation are not subject to probate.
What is the probate process?
Here is a VERY simplified outline the general probate process:
An application with the original will is filed with the Court. After filing of the application, the clerk posts a notice at the courthouse. After the 10 days, a hearing is scheduled to admit the will and appoint the Executor or Administrator if there is no will. Within 30 days from the date the executor qualifies, a notice to creditors is filed in a local newspaper. The minimum amount of time that the probate process can be completed is approximately six months, but it normally takes longer.
Is there any way to avoid probate in Texas?
In Texas, if your assets amount to less than $50,000, exclusive of homestead, and you die without a will, probate can be accomplished by filing a Small Estates Affidavit and a hearing is not necessary.
Meet with Cynthia Fronterhouse so we can decide the best course of action that will minimize the chance of legal complications and minimize the costs of probate.
Further below on this page is a fee schedule for estate planning services with our Houston attorneys involving non-taxable estates. Please note that these fees are only an estimate and can vary based on how complex your individual circumstances are. For clients who possess significant assets, have a family that’s blended, have child(ren) with special needs or are interested in utilizing trusts, our legal fee will be higher. If the requests for your estate planning are detailed, complex or out of the ordinary, this may increase the cost of your estate plan.
Before our attorneys begin any work on your behalf, our Houston law firm will always quote you a flat fee. We do allow payment plans to accommodate your budget. Contact us for a quote.
ESTATE PLANNING PACKAGES
Estate Planning Packages for Individuals start at $550
Includes: Last Will and Testament*, Durable Power of Attorney, Medical Power of Attorney, HIPAA Authorization, Living Will or Directive to Physicians, Appointment of Guardian (if necessary), Beneficiary Designation Instructions, detailed instructions on how to sign your documents in compliance with the Texas Statutes, and a periodic “peace of mind” review.
Estate Planning Packages for Couples – $1100
Includes: Last Will and Testament*, Durable Power of Attorney, Medical Power of Attorney, HIPAA Authorization, Living Will or Directive to Physicians, Appointment of Guardian (if necessary), Beneficiary Designation Instructions, detailed instructions on how to sign your documents in compliance with the Texas Statutes, and a periodic “peace of mind” review.
*Indicates simple wills with no tax planning or trust provisions.
ESTATE PLANNING DOCUMENTS
- Last Will and Testament* (individual)
- Last Will and Testament* (couple)
- Medical Power of Attorney
- HIPAA Release
- Directive to Physicians
- Durable Power of Attorney
- Appointment of Guardian
ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
Our Houston law firm can also provide assistance with estate administration for certain circumstances. This service is billed either hourly or as a flat fee, depending on the situation. Contact our estate planning attorneys for a quote.
OTHER LEGAL SERVICES
Nimmons & Fronterhouse provides basic answers and guidance to a wide array of Texas legal issues. If you need guidance in a specific legal matter, or would like a quote for our estate planning services not listed on this page, contact our Houston Estate Attorneys for a quote.
PAYING YOUR HOUSTON ESTATE ATTORNEY
We accept Mastercard, Visa, and Discover, but not American Express.
*Indicates no tax planning or trust provisions with our simple wills. Our Fees may be higher depending on the complexity of your unique circumstances. We will always quote you a flat fee rate before starting any work on your behalf. Click here to contact me for a quote. Listed fees are subject to change.
