Probate Consult

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) 702-2203.

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.

“The whole firm was very caring and empathetic towards the situation and I couldn't have asked for better legal representation!”

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5-Star Client Testimonials

Your Outcome Matters

"Considerate and Knowledgeable"
I was super pleased with Mr. Ritchie’s services. He was extremely considerate and very knowledgeable. He made a difficult situation for me easier to manage.

- Karl J.
"Knowledgable and Sympathetic"
Derek was very knowledgeable and sympathetic to my situation. He answered all my questions and I feel much better about the journey I have ahead of me.

- Taylor M.
"Amazing People!"
Amazing people! Made my very stressful situation super easy. Always there when I need something and I love that they’re only a phone call away.

- Yomira Q.
"Lovely to Have Them in my Corner"
If I had to choose just one word to describe my experience with Mr. Ritchie it would be, marvelous. It was a very lovely experience to have had him in my corner.

- Traci M.
"Absolutely Hands Down My Best Experience with an Attorney!"
This is a life-changing experience for me and I want to thank Sidney, Megan, Mr. Ritchie, and the entire team for all the help!

- Bryan F.
"Very Direct and Professional"
Wonderful attorney, he is very direct and professional. Will fight for your defense to be heard, and for a very swift ruling in your favor.

- Taylor M.
"They Gave Us Peace and Hope of a Future"
He went above and beyond what we expected. We will forever recommend his law firm. Mr. Ritchie and Mrs. Vanessa were so much help they kept us informed... just when we thought we knew all the information they gave us more.

- Former Client
"Professional with Integrity"
Mr. Ritchie is a professional with integrity, ethics and a competitive drive to win! So grateful for his counsel. Hope I never need him for any criminal defense, but he works hard and knows family law. Next is some estate planning! Thanks, Derek Ritchie!

- Nadia N.

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.

An Award-Winning Firm

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Work Directly With Your Attorneys

Derek and his team will work directly with you through every step of your case. It’s important to us that your case receives highly personalized attention. You instilled your trust in us and we will work to meet and exceed your expectations.
We Fight to Win

We’re competitive by nature and have a versatile legal style. We always seek an amicable outcome among different parties. We’re also prepared and ready to take your case to trial.
Complimentary Consultations

We strive to create an environment where you feel safe and protected. We recommend starting with a complimentary consultation to review your case together. Evening and weekend consultations are available by appointment only.