Probating an estate can take a considerable amount of time in Texas. If a recently deceased loved one did not leave behind an estate plan or other applicable instructions, the estate administration process could also face its own set of complications. Of course, even with a plan, the proceedings may not be free of issues that could cause difficulties.
Though an estate plan can seem like a beneficial gift from beyond the grave, if a loved one did not take the proper steps to create their plan, problems could arise. In particular, individuals who attempted to make their plans without any help from knowledgeable professionals may not have created their plans correctly. As a result, any documents could be considered invalid, and state intestate laws could end up governing the administration.
Of course, a properly and carefully crafted plan could help surviving family feel more comfortable with the process. By knowing a loved one’s wishes, individuals may better understand what steps they need to take to ensure that those wishes are carried out. This type of information may also bring some sense of comfort to those left to handle the remaining affairs.
Whether or not an estate plan is in place, estate administration can be hard for surviving family to handle. There are many factors and steps to the process, and it can easily become overwhelming. If Texas residents are in the situation of handling a deceased loved one’s estate, they may wish to consider enlisting the help of experienced attorneys to offer guidance throughout the administration proceedings.
Source: limaohio.com, “Legal-Ease: Estate planning can be an amazing gift to others“, Lee R. Schroeder, Nov. 18, 2017