As an executor of an estate in Texas, you face numerous time-sensitive responsibilities. Missing critical deadlines can lead to personal liability or delays in the probate process. Adhering to these deadlines helps honor the decedent's final wishes and protects...
Year: 2025
Why should you update your will after a divorce?
Divorce changes more than your relationship status; it affects everything from finances to legal rights. One thing many people forget? Updating their will. Ex-spouses may still be named If your will names your former spouse as a beneficiary or executor, that could...
Can you challenge a Texas will during probate?
If you’re facing the Texas probate process, you may wonder if it’s possible to challenge a will. The answer is yes, but doing so requires a valid legal reason and can be a complex process. Grounds for challenging a will There are several grounds on which you can...
I’m the executor for my parent’s estate. Now what?
If you were appointed as the executor of your parent’s estate, it shows that they had confidence in your ability to do the right thing after they had passed away. But that doesn’t mean that you aren’t still in over your head. While some executors can handle settling...
How much should you pay a family member to be your executor?
Choosing a family member to serve as executor of an estate is common in Texas. This role carries important responsibilities, such as paying debts, managing assets and distributing property according to your will. It is only natural to choose someone you deeply trust. ...
Are fiduciaries responsible for unpaid debts?
Fiduciaries play a key role in managing financial matters for estates and trusts. One of their most important responsibilities involves handling outstanding debts. If you're named as a fiduciary, you might wonder whether you could be held personally responsible for...
You likely aren’t responsible for your deceased loved one’s debts
When a loved one passes away, there are likely loose ends that need to be tied up. Some of these may have to do with the decedent’s finances. In most cases, the person’s estate is liable for covering those debts. Even if the estate is insolvent and can’t pay them, the...
How do you inventory estate assets?
When you take on the responsibility of managing a loved one's estate, one of your first tasks is creating an inventory of their assets. This list helps settle debts, distribute property, and meet legal requirements in Texas probate. Start with physical property Begin...
How do you handle a missing will?
Handling a missing will can be stressful, especially when you’re managing someone’s estate. In Texas, the absence of a will doesn’t prevent you from settling the estate—it just makes the process more complicated. Understanding how to proceed can save time, reduce...
What happens to a trust during probate in Texas?
If you've recently experienced the loss of a loved one, you may be wondering what happens to a trust during probate in Texas. The process can seem confusing, but understanding the key steps can make it easier to navigate. While probate and trusts are different, it's...

