PROBATE · DFW · AUSTIN · HOUSTON
Texas Probate Attorneys Guiding Families Through Estate Administration
Losing a loved one is hard enough without navigating the courts alone. Dooley Noted Law helps Texas families settle estates efficiently, protect what's rightfully theirs, and avoid unnecessary delays in probate court.
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PROBATE IN TEXAS
A Texas Attorney Who Simplifies a Complicated Probate Process
If someone close to you has passed away, you may be wondering whether probate is even necessary — and if so, what it actually involves. The Texas probate process exists to legally transfer a person's assets, settle their debts, and honor their wishes as laid out in a will (or, if there isn't one, according to state law).
At Dooley Noted Law, we help executors, administrators, and heirs move through probate court in Texas with clarity instead of confusion. Whether the estate is straightforward or involves disputes among heirs, we handle the paperwork, deadlines, and court appearances so you can focus on your family.
SERVICES
What We Handle
Executor Representation
We stand alongside executors and administrators at every step, making sure filings are accurate, deadlines are met, and their actions hold up if ever questioned by the court or heirs.
Probate Administration
We manage the practical side of settling the estate — inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and closing out the case once everything has been properly resolved.
Guardianship for Minors and Adults
When a beneficiary is a minor or an incapacitated adult, we help establish the appropriate guardianship to manage their inheritance.
Muniment of Title
For qualifying estates with a valid will and no unpaid debts, we use this faster, Texas-specific process to transfer property without a full administration.
Determination of Heirship
When someone dies without a will, we help the court formally establish who the legal heirs are so the estate can move forward.
Will Contests
If a will's validity is challenged, we represent your interests through the dispute, whether that means defending the will or contesting it.
How Probate Works in Texas
The Texas probate process typically begins when someone — usually the executor named in the will — files an application with the county probate court where the deceased lived. If the will is valid and uncontested, the court appoints the executor, who then takes on the legal authority to manage the estate.
From there, the executor identifies and inventories the deceased's assets, notifies creditors, pays any outstanding debts, and eventually distributes what remains to the beneficiaries. Texas offers a simplified process called independent administration for many estates, which can reduce court involvement and speed things along — but not every estate qualifies, and not every situation is uncontested.
If there's no will, the estate is considered intestate, and Texas law determines how assets are divided among surviving family members. This process can take longer and often benefits from legal guidance to avoid disputes among heirs.
What to Expect Working With Dooley Noted
From your first conversation with us through the final distribution of assets, we keep you informed at every stage. We explain your responsibilities in plain language, flag potential complications early, and handle communication with the court on your behalf.
We represent clients across DFW, Austin, and Houston, and we're equipped to support families no matter where in Texas the estate is being administered. Our virtual-first approach means you can review documents, ask questions, and move your case forward without taking time off work or traveling to an office.
Ready to Move Forward?
Tell us about your situation. We'll review your case and be in touch soon.
Payment collected at booking.
File the Application
We file the probate application with the county court and request the executor's appointment.
Notify Creditors & Heirs
Required notices go out, giving creditors and beneficiaries the chance to respond.
Inventory & Settle Debts
We help catalog the estate's assets and resolve valid debts before distribution.
Distribute & Close
Remaining assets are distributed to beneficiaries and the estate is formally closed.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Why Our Families Trust Dooley Noted Law
★★★★★
"I was very pleased with my outcome and follow through. I would definitely recommend this law office to friends and family."
Michele M.
★★★★★
“My entire experience with Dooley Noted Law was above and beyond what I expected. I was given precise, clear instructions and direction in return my questions, of which there were many, were responded to quickly and explicitly."
Sandy D.
★★★★★
"Everything was great! Very quick and efficient, great communication along the way! I really can't say enough positive things!! Thank you!!!"
Joseph M.
READY TO MOVE FORWARD?
Get the Legal Guidance You Need to Navigate the Probate Process
Contact Dooley Noted Law for a free case review, or book a consultation directly with a licensed Texas Probate attorney.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Common Questions About the Probate Process in Texas
Not finding your answer here? Schedule a free case review and we'll walk you through your specific situation.
Do I have to go to court for probate in Texas?
In most cases, yes — but often just once. Many independent administrations only require a brief initial hearing to have the executor appointed. From there, most of the work happens outside the courtroom, though contested estates may require additional appearances.
What's the difference between independent and dependent administration?
Independent administration lets the executor manage the estate with minimal court supervision, which is faster and less expensive. Dependent administration requires court approval for most actions, such as selling property or paying debts, and is typically used when the will doesn't authorize independent administration or when heirs disagree.
How do I know if I've been named executor?
If you're named in the will, you'll typically find out when the will is read or when you're contacted by the person handling the estate. To formally act as executor, you'll still need to be appointed by the probate court, even if the will names you.
What happens if the will is contested during probate?
If a beneficiary or family member challenges the validity of the will, the probate process pauses while the court resolves the dispute. This can extend the timeline significantly and may require additional hearings or even a trial.
Do I need to notify anyone before starting probate?
Yes. Texas law requires notice to known heirs and creditors, and in some cases a notice must be published so unknown creditors have the opportunity to come forward with claims against the estate.
What if the deceased owned property outside of Texas?
Out-of-state property often requires a separate probate proceeding, known as ancillary probate, in the state where the property is located — in addition to the primary probate case here in Texas.