Probate & Estate Administration

What Is Probate?

Probate is the court supervised process of validating a last will and testament, appointing an executor or administrator, identifying and valuing assets, paying outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to heirs or beneficiaries. If no valid will exists, the court follows Texas intestacy laws to determine which heirs will inherit the property.

Probate and estate administration documents

Our Probate Experience

Attorney Jaclyn Patton has completed hundreds of probate cases across Texas counties, representing clients in estates of all sizes. She frequently serves as lead Texas counsel for estates involving out of state or international assets, coordinating with families, executors, and other attorneys or professionals to ensure smooth administration.

Her experience includes all types of probate proceedings such as:

  • Independent Administration
  • Dependent Administration
  • Determination of Heirship
  • Community Administration
  • Muniment of Title
  • Probate of Will as Independent Administration
  • Affidavit of Heirship
  • Small Estate Affidavit
  • Alternatives to probate

Common Probate Matters We Handle

Validating and administering wills and trust agreements

Helping executors and administrators fulfill their duties

Addressing creditor claims and outstanding debts

Resolving disputes among heirs or beneficiaries

Assisting with property sales or transfers

Guiding families through intestate succession when no will exists

Exploring alternatives to probate or more efficient probate procedures when available

Why Work With a Probate Attorney?

Probate in Texas is a court-supervised legal process that, in most situations, requires representation by a licensed attorney. The process involves complex court filings, strict deadlines, and the potential for unexpected disputes, and attempting to navigate it without proper legal guidance can result in costly mistakes and unnecessary delays.

At the Patton Law Firm, we handle these legal responsibilities with care and precision, allowing you to focus on your loved ones and healing while we ensure the estate is administered correctly and efficiently.

A Reputation for Excellence

Jaclyn has become known as a go to probate attorney for real estate investors, business owners, ranch owners, and families managing estates that contain multi state or international assets. Her experience and personal dedication make her an invaluable guide through even the most complex probate matters.

Probate & Estate Administration FAQs

Do all estates have to go through probate in Texas?

Probate is not always needed. Some assets can transfer outside of probate, like those with designated beneficiaries or jointly owned property. We’ll help determine if probate is required for your situation. If probate is needed, we will identify if any alternatives to the longer full probate process are available for your circumstances.

How long does probate take?

The full probate process can take anywhere from a couple of months to over a year depending on the complexity of the estate and any disputes that may arise.

Contact Us to Get Started Today

Fill out the form below, or call us at (713) 730-9446.