Personal representatives must give up their time to oversee estate administration. Their careers and families may not receive the attention they usually do when there are pressing asset management or court matters to address. Estate administration can reduce income...
Keeping beneficiaries adequately informed is one of your duties as an estate’s executor. It ensures you maintain transparency. Failing to effectively communicate with beneficiaries can get you into trouble. They may petition to remove you, as they may believe you are...
You've worked hard to build your estate. However, death does not erase your financial obligations. In fact, your estate must settle your debts before your heirs receive their inheritance. But which bills does your estate pay first? This is where understanding this...
When someone dies, their estate must address any remaining debts before distributing assets to beneficiaries. During estate administration, the executor reviews financial records, gathers property and identifies creditors. In some cases, the estate does not have...
Your phone and computer hold more than contacts and emails. They store photos, messages, and online accounts that document your life and relationships. Without clear planning, your loved ones may face delays or denial when trying to manage or preserve these items....
Oil and gas interests often surprise families during estate administration. These assets can produce income long after death, but they also come with paperwork, contracts, and obligations. If you serve as executor or beneficiary, understanding how Texas treats these...
Estate administration may seem complete once assets are distributed and the court closes the file. In Texas, however, certain situations allow a probate court to take further action related to an estate. Knowing when this can happen helps you understand what closure...
Writing checks and distributing assets to beneficiaries can feel like the finish line. However, this is not yet the end of your role as an independent executor. Closing the estate is the last step you can take to formally end your fiduciary responsibilities and...
When someone dies, their executor—or “personal representative” under Texas law—must manage the estate with honesty and care. If that person mishandles property, delays required filings, or acts against the estate’s interests, the court can remove them. Texas law gives...
Serving as an executor in Texas comes with specific legal duties. One of the most important tasks is filing an inventory, appraisement, and list of claims with the court. This document shows what the estate owns, what it owes, and helps ensure fair distribution among...