San Antonio probate attorneys
Protecting You & Your Rights Throughout Probate
When an individual passes away (becomes a “decedent”), the probate court steps in to ensure their last wishes regarding probate law are fulfilled, and their estate is distributed properly. If you find yourself named an executor or personal representative during a probate case, you may be unsure of what steps to take next. It’s important to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable probate attorney who can assist you in navigating the complexities of the probate process.
A skilled probate attorney can provide valuable legal support and ensure that the decedent’s wishes are carried out according to the law. At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC, our San Antonio probate lawyers will work with you to navigate the probate process and ensure your rights remain protected throughout.
Contact our firm to learn more! Call (210) 775-2000.
Meet Attorney Derek S. Ritchie
With a diverse background in the law and a genuine passion for helping others, Attorney Derek Ritchie is the person you’ll want on your side when faced with a legal challenge. Derek offers all the qualities you want in a lawyer: compassionate yet aggressive, trustworthy and results-driven, and adaptable to all kinds of people and situations. He understands how much is at stake for his clients whether they are fighting to maintain custody of their children in a divorce or their freedom when charged with a crime.
The Probate Process in Texas
After the court validates the will, the executor or administrator appointed to the estate must take the following steps:
- Inventory assets. The executor must appraise and inventory all assets in the testator’s estate to determine their value. After completing these steps, they must provide the court with that inventory. The executor has 90 days to complete the process from start to finish. Various factors, such as whether any beneficiaries may disagree with the terms of the will, can increase the difficulty of inventorying an estate.
- Identifying and notifying beneficiaries. After cataloging the estate, the executor must identify individuals named as beneficiaries in the will.
- Identifying and notifying creditors. Before distributing the estate among beneficiaries, the executor must take care of any debts the testator possessed. This may involve selling property originally owed to beneficiaries.
- Resolving disputes. Before the executor can finish probate, they must handle any remaining disputes among beneficiaries or others who lay claim to the estate concerning the validity of the will.
- Finalizing asset distribution. Once any disputes are handled and creditors are paid, the executor and probate court can award property to beneficiaries as stated in the will.
Our Practice Areas
Tailored to Meet and Exceed Your Needs
Personalized Attention.
Fearless Dedication.
As soon as you step foot in our office or speak with Derek on the phone, you will understand what sets our firm apart from the rest. With the resources and determination of large multi-partner firms but the personalized representation of a small boutique firm, The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC delivers results without ever losing sight of what is most important: the client.
Our clients routinely report how comfortable they felt working with Derek. We are dedicated to creating and maintaining a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel confident putting their trust in our San Antonio attorney.
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What Differentiates Us
Results-Focused Tenacity
