Heirship Proceedings in Texas
Our Katy Probate Lawyers Have 85+ Years of Experience
An heirship proceeding is a court proceeding used to determine who an individual's heirs are. When an individual dies without a last will and testament (referred to as dying intestate ) the Texas Estates Code provides what the individual's heirs shall inherit. Even though identifying an individual's heirs is commonly an easy and straightforward process (spouse, children, parents, etc.), the courts will not make assumptions regarding the identity of heirs and will require an heirship proceeding to be conducted. This process involves a court-appointed attorney who investigates the deceased individual's family history and confirms to the court the identity of the heirs.
Key points to remember about heirship proceedings include:
- Proceeding determines and legally establishes who a deceased individual's heirs are
- A court-appointed attorney ad litem conducts an investigation to determine who the heirs are
- Two disinterested witnesses testify in court regarding the identity of the deceased individual's heirs
- Following the heirship proceeding, an estate administration must be conducted
Schedule a consultation with our probate lawyers in Katy by calling (281) 990-6025 to discuss heirship proceedings.
How to Begin Heirship Proceedings
In order to begin heirship proceedings, any heirs, secured creditors, or representative of the deceased may file a request with Texas probate court. All heirs must sign the application or be served a notice of the proceedings. The Texas Probate Code outlines how this can be completed, however a probate attorney may be hired to help with this step as well.
All heirs must sign the application in order for the proceedings to begin.
Choose Trusted Probate Lawyers in Katy. Call (281) 990-6025.
While an heirship proceeding is a necessary part of administering an intestate estate, it adds time and expense to the administration of your estate and can easily be avoided with proper estate planning.
The attorneys at The Springer Law Firm can help you develop an effective estate plan that will enable your loved ones to avoid the burden and hassle of an heirship proceeding. However, if estate planning was not completed, our Katy heirship attorneys have the experience to guide you through the heirship proceeding and estate administration process.
You can reach our Katy probate attorneys online or by telephone at (281) 990-6025 to arrange your initial consultation.
