PROBATE & ESTATE MATTERS
Losing a family member can bring difficult legal and practical responsibilities at an already challenging time. Maglisceau & Maglisceau, PLLC helps individuals and families understand the probate and estate administration process, address property and estate-related matters, and determine the appropriate next steps.
UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS
After someone passes away, family members may be faced with questions about a will, property, debts, beneficiaries, court filings, and who has authority to handle the estate.
The appropriate process depends on the circumstances of the estate. Some matters may be relatively straightforward, while others can involve real estate, business interests, unclear documentation, or disagreements that require additional attention.
Maglisceau & Maglisceau works with clients to understand the situation, identify the legal issues involved, and develop a practical path forward.
HOW WE CAN HELP
FOR EXECUTORS & ADMINISTRATORS
Being named in a will does not necessarily mean you already know what needs to happen next.
Executors and estate administrators may need to address court requirements, estate property, financial obligations, records, beneficiaries, and other responsibilities while also dealing with the loss of a family member.
Legal guidance can help you understand your role, organize the issues that need attention, and move through the process with greater clarity.
WHEN AN ESTATE INCLUDES REAL ESTATE
For many families, some of the most significant estate assets are real property.
A probate or estate matter may involve a family home, land, rental property, investment property, ownership interests, or property that needs to be addressed before an estate can move forward.
Steve Maglisceau brings extensive real-world real estate experience to matters where estate administration and property issues intersect.
WHEN TO SEEK GUIDANCE
SERVING NORTH TEXAS
Maglisceau & Maglisceau, PLLC serves clients with probate and estate matters in North Texas, with particular focus on Cooke County and Grayson County.
Depending on the matter, the firm also serves clients across other parts of the North Texas region.
A PRACTICAL APPROACH
Probate and estate matters are not identical from one family to another. The property involved, available documents, family circumstances, and other legal considerations can all affect what comes next.
Maglisceau & Maglisceau begins by understanding the situation before developing a path forward.
PROBATE & ESTATE FAQs
What is probate?
Probate is a legal process that may be used after a person’s death to address a will, appoint or recognize the appropriate person to administer the estate, and handle other matters involving the estate under Texas law.
Does every estate have to go through probate in Texas?
Not necessarily. The appropriate process depends on factors such as the assets involved, how property is owned, whether there is a valid will, and other circumstances. An attorney can review the situation and help determine what process may apply.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Texas?
When a person dies without a valid will, Texas law can determine how estate property passes. The appropriate administration process depends on the specific circumstances of the estate and potential heirs.
What does an executor do?
An executor may have responsibilities involving estate administration, property, records, obligations, beneficiaries, and court requirements. The exact responsibilities depend on the estate and the applicable legal process.
How long does probate take in Texas?
There is no single timeline for every estate. The length of the process can depend on the estate’s complexity, property involved, required court procedures, unresolved issues, and other circumstances.
What if the estate includes real estate?
Real property can create additional considerations during estate administration, including ownership, documentation, and decisions concerning the property. Legal and real estate issues may need to be considered together.
When should I contact a probate attorney?
If you are responsible for an estate, have questions about a will or estate property, are unsure whether probate is required, or do not know what steps to take after a death, speaking with an attorney can help clarify the available options and next steps.