Losing a loved one is hard enough - the legal process shouldn’t make it harder. At Texas Estate & Probate Lawyers, we simplify probate with clear guidance, flat-fee services, and step-by-step support so you always know what comes next.
Whether your loved one left a will or not, or whether you need a simple transfer of property or full court involvement, we offer the right probate solution for every situation. Explore the services below to understand which option fits your needs:
Not sure where to begin? Start with a quick assessment.
This service handles the full probate process when a valid will names an Executor. The court officially appoints that person so they can manage the estate - collecting assets, paying debts, and distributing property exactly as outlined in the will.
Who it’s for: People in Texas whose loved one left a valid, self-proved will that names an executor, and who need the court to officially appoint that executor so they can gather assets, pay debts, and transfer property according to the will.
When someone passes away without a will, the court must legally determine who the rightful heirs are. This process establishes heirship so assets can be distributed and titles transferred properly.
Who it’s for: Families whose loved one died without a will, and who need the court to legally identify and confirm all heirs before assets can be distributed or titles transferred.
This service handles both identifying heirs and appointing an Administrator to manage the estate. It is used when there is no will and the estate contains assets that require court-supervised administration.
Who it’s for: Families dealing with an estate with no will and assets that require full court-supervised administration (like real estate, accounts, or debts), and who also need a formal court order establishing the heirs.
A simplified probate option that allows property title to transfer using the will alone - without appointing an Executor - when the estate has no unpaid debts. It is available even if more than four years have passed since the person passed away.
Who it’s for: Heirs or beneficiaries where there is a valid will and the main goal is to transfer title to property (often real estate), more than four years after death, and where there are no unpaid unsecured debts that require a full probate.
A document-based method used to establish who inherits real estate when someone dies without a will. Once recorded, it helps clarify ownership for title companies and future transactions.
Who it’s for: Heirs of someone who died without a will, where the main issue is proving ownership of Texas real estate (like a house or land), and the family wants a simpler, document-based way to show who owns the property.
A streamlined process for small estates that meet Texas legal requirements. It allows heirs to collect assets and transfer certain property quickly without going through a full probate case.
Who it’s for: Families handling a modest estate that qualifies under Texas small-estate rules, usually when there’s no will, limited assets, and they want a quicker, more cost-effective alternative to a full probate to transfer property.
This service admits a will into probate in Texas when the will was originally created or probated in another state or country. It ensures Texas assets - especially real estate - can be legally transferred.
Who it’s for: People who have a will that was signed or probated outside of Texas (another state or country), but who now need that will recognized in Texas - often to handle real estate or other assets located in the Houston / Conroe area.

If you are facing the death of a loved one and need to handle their estate, you may have heard the term "probate" thrown around. But what exactly does it mean? And why do you need a probate lawyer for this process?
In this short article, we will dive into everything you need to know about probate lawyers in Houston and Conroe, TX. From the basics of probate law to finding the right attorney for your needs, we've got you covered!
Probate is the legal process of distributing a deceased person's assets and settling their debts. The estate goes through probate to ensure the fulfillment of their wishes and debts. This court-monitored process follows Texas state law in Houston, which can be complex. A probate lawyer can provide the expertise needed to navigate the process and ensure proper handling.
While it is not legally required, hiring a probate lawyer in Houston is highly recommended. The probate process can be lengthy, confusing, and emotionally draining for those who are grieving. A probate lawyer can handle the legal aspects, saving time and money. Their expertise ensures everything is done correctly and efficiently, preventing costly mistakes or delays.
When seeking a probate lawyer in Houston, it's crucial to conduct thorough research to find an experienced and reputable professional. Consider the following tips:
- Seek recommendations from friends and family with probate experience.
- Research online and examine reviews from past clients, focusing on lawyers with a successful track record in probate cases.
- Schedule consultations with multiple lawyers to discuss your case and gauge their expertise and communication style.
- Select a lawyer specializing in probate law with relevant experience.
Handling the probate process can be a difficult and overwhelming task, especially while dealing with the loss of a loved one. That's why it's important to have a probate lawyer on your side who can guide you through this complex legal process. Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide to probate lawyers in Houston, TX. Need help with estate planning? Check out our Estate Planning Houston, TX service page.
We hope it has been helpful and informative. If you have any further questions or would like to speak with a probate lawyer, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team at Texas Estate and Probate Lawyers PLLC is here to support and guide you through the probate process with compassion and expertise. If you are looking for a probate lawyer in Conroe, TX or in the Houston area get in touch with us. We're here to help you.
Let us help you honor your loved one's final wishes and settle their estate with care. Take care during this difficult time, and remember, we are here for you. Thank you again for reading our guide. We wish you and your family all the best.
The need to go through probate largely depends on the specifics of the deceased's estate. Probate, a legal process, is typically required when the deceased person owns any assets in their name alone. Other factors, such as the type of property, the total value of the estate, and the state laws where the deceased resided, can also influence the need for probate.
Probate is the court-supervised process of administering an individual's estate upon their death. In cases where there is no will, the estate must undergo probate before the distribution of assets to beneficiaries. Even with a will, probate is still required.
Simple estates generally take about 6 months.
To initiate the probate process, several key elements are required. Firstly, the original will of the deceased person needs to be located, if one exists. Next, an inventory of the deceased’s property, including all their assets and debts, must be compiled. It is also important to obtain the deceased person's death certificate.
Probate costs can vary widely depending on the complexity of the estate and the jurisdiction in which the probate is filed. On a general note, probate costs usually include court fees, attorney fees, executor fees, appraisal costs, and other miscellaneous expenses related to the administration of the estate. While it's challenging to provide a precise figure without specific details, costs typically range between 3% and 7% of the total estate value.
If there is no will, and there are assets or debts that need to be handled, then an application can be filed with the court asking for a person to be appointed to pay debts and collect and distribute the assets.
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