Probate & Estate Administration

Compassionate Probate Guidance for Highland Lakes Families

Navigate the probate process with confidence. Experienced legal counsel for estate administration, will validation, and asset distribution in Horseshoe Bay, Marble Falls, and throughout Burnet County.

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Understanding Probate in Texas

Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate, validating their will, paying debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. In Texas, probate proceedings take place in the county where the decedent resided.

For families in the Highland Lakes region—including Horseshoe Bay, Marble Falls, Burnet, and Kingsland—navigating Burnet County probate court can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time. Tavera Law provides compassionate, experienced guidance through every step of the process.

Whether you're an executor named in a will, an heir to an estate, or need to initiate probate proceedings, we help you understand your rights and responsibilities while ensuring compliance with Texas probate law.

When is Probate Required?

  • Assets titled solely in the decedent's name
  • Real estate without transfer-on-death designation
  • Bank accounts without payable-on-death beneficiaries
  • Personal property and vehicles
  • Business interests and investments
  • Estates without valid trusts

The Texas Probate Process

Understanding the timeline and steps involved in probate helps families prepare for what's ahead.

Week 1-2

File Application

Submit probate application to Burnet County Court within four years of death. Includes death certificate, will (if applicable), and required documentation.

Week 3-6

Court Hearing

Attend probate hearing where the court validates the will and appoints the executor or administrator to manage the estate.

Month 2-6

Notify Creditors

Publish notice to creditors and notify known creditors. Texas law requires a four-month creditor claim period.

Month 2-3

Inventory Assets

Compile complete inventory of estate assets, including real estate, bank accounts, personal property, and investments. File with court.

Month 4-8

Pay Debts & Taxes

Settle valid creditor claims, pay outstanding debts, file final tax returns, and pay any estate taxes owed.

Month 6-12

Distribute Assets

Distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries according to will or Texas intestacy law. File final accounting with court and close estate.

Typical Timeline: 6-12 months for independent administration; 12-18+ months for dependent administration

Comprehensive Probate Services

Full-service probate administration and estate settlement for Highland Lakes families.

Independent Administration

Streamlined probate process with minimal court supervision. Executors have authority to act independently, making it faster and more cost-effective. Ideal when all beneficiaries agree and the will authorizes independent administration.

Dependent Administration

Court-supervised probate requiring approval for major decisions. Necessary when the will doesn't authorize independent administration or when disputes exist among beneficiaries. More formal process with additional court hearings.

Muniment of Title

Simplified probate alternative when there are no debts except those secured by real estate. Allows property transfer without full administration. Faster and less expensive option for qualifying estates.

Small Estate Affidavit

Streamlined process for estates valued under $75,000 (excluding homestead and exempt property). Avoids formal probate through sworn affidavit. Quick solution for modest estates meeting Texas requirements.

Will Contest & Disputes

Legal representation for will validity challenges, beneficiary disputes, executor misconduct claims, and breach of fiduciary duty cases. Protect your inheritance rights and ensure proper estate administration.

Heirship Proceedings

Establish legal heirs when someone dies without a will (intestate). Required to transfer property when no will exists. Court determines rightful heirs under Texas intestacy law.

Why Choose Tavera Law for Probate

Local Court Experience

Extensive experience with Burnet County Probate Court procedures, local judges, and court staff. We understand the specific requirements and expectations of your local court system.

Compassionate Guidance

We understand you're dealing with loss while handling complex legal matters. Our approach combines professional expertise with genuine empathy and clear communication throughout the process.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront fee structures with no hidden costs. We explain all expenses and work efficiently to minimize costs while ensuring proper estate administration.

Need Help with Probate?

Schedule a free consultation to discuss your probate needs. We'll review your situation, explain the process, and outline next steps.

Schedule Free Consultation