When a loved one passes away, managing their estate can feel overwhelming—especially while coping with grief. At Looney Smith Conrad & Hefti P.C., our experienced Texas probate attorneys help families navigate the legal complexities of probate with clarity, compassion, and efficiency. Whether your loved one left a valid Will or passed without one, our legal team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Call (281) 597-8818 for a consultation today!
Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered. If a Will exists, the probate court validates the document and appoints an executor to carry out the decedent’s wishes. If there is no Will, the court designates a personal representative (administrator) to distribute the estate according to Texas intestacy laws.
Starting the probate process quickly is critical. Texas law requires that a probate estate be filed within four years of the date of death. If probate is not initiated on time, beneficiaries could lose their legal rights to inherit.
Probate isn’t just about reading a Will and distributing property. It involves formal court filings, determining heirship, notifying creditors, handling estate debts, securing property titles, and distributing assets. Whether the estate is large or small, our Houston probate attorneys ensure the process is handled professionally, thoroughly, and in compliance with Texas probate law. We help you:
If your loved one left a valid Will, the court will appoint the named executor to carry out the instructions in the Will. Once the executor receives Letters of Administration, they are legally authorized to begin managing the estate. Our team helps ensure every filing is properly handled and every deadline is met.
No Will? The Court Will Decide
When someone dies without a Will (intestate), the court will appoint an administrator and determine legal heirs. These decisions are based solely on Texas intestacy law—not personal relationships, emotional bonds, or intentions. This process can be particularly complex and contentious. Our attorneys represent families during heirship proceedings and assist administrators in fulfilling their legal obligations.
In Texas, an independent administration is often the preferred probate process. If all heirs agree, the court can allow the administrator or executor to carry out estate duties without ongoing court supervision. This speeds up the process and reduces costs.
If the court instead appoints a dependent administrator, they must seek court approval for nearly every action, including paying bills, selling property, or distributing assets. Our probate attorneys help you determine the best course of action and ensure compliance with all probate procedures.
If the estate is valued at less than $50,000 and includes no real estate, you may be eligible to file a Small Estate Affidavit. This streamlined process avoids formal probate, saving time and expenses. We’ll help determine eligibility and file the appropriate paperwork with your county’s probate court to ensure quick access to estate assets.
Our firm has been helping families across Houston, Hempstead, and throughout Texas with probate and estate administration for decades. We understand the emotional and legal burdens that follow a loss. We take the time to explain each step, communicate clearly, and handle the heavy legal lifting on your behalf.
With deep knowledge of the Texas Estates Code and hands-on experience in both simple and contested probate cases, we are prepared to advocate for your interests with professionalism and care.
If you have recently lost a loved one and need help with probate or estate administration in Texas, do not delay. The sooner we begin, the more options you have to protect the estate and your legal rights.
Call Looney Smith Conrad & Hefti P.C. Today for a Confidential Consultation
Our experienced probate attorneys are here to support your family during this important transition. Let us help you move forward with peace of mind.
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