The Humble Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC proudly assists families throughout Humble, Atascocita, Kingwood, Spring, and the Northeast Houston region as they navigate the Texas probate process. Whether you are preparing to probate a will, serving as an executor, or facing a contested estate matter, our Humble probate attorneys provide clarity, compassion, and experienced legal support every step of the way.
Probate often comes at an emotionally difficult time. Families may be overwhelmed by legal requirements, filing deadlines, property issues, and unfamiliar court procedures—all while processing grief. Even small errors in paperwork or timing can cause significant delays. Our Humble Office works closely with executors, administrators, beneficiaries, and heirs to ensure full compliance with Texas probate laws and Harris County procedural rules.
With a deep understanding of the local courts and the needs of Humble-area families, we provide steady guidance from the beginning of probate to the final distribution of assets.
Understanding the Role of Probate Courts in Texas
Texas probate courts oversee all legal matters that arise after a person passes away. Their responsibilities include:
- Admitting wills into probate
- Appointing executors or administrators
- Ensuring all debts, taxes, and liabilities are resolved
- Reviewing and approving estate inventories and accountings
- Addressing disputes among heirs or beneficiaries
- Supervising the legal transfer of real and personal property
- Verifying that the estate is distributed according to Texas law
For Humble families, probate matters are typically handled through the Harris County Probate Courts, which follow strict procedures, filing requirements, and administrative rules. Our attorneys stay up-to-date on local practices to ensure your probate case stays on track.
How Our Humble Office Helps Families Navigate Probate Court
From the passing of a loved one to the final closing of the estate, our probate team provides transparent communication and hands-on legal guidance.
Preparing and Filing Probate Applications
Every estate requires a different probate process depending on the circumstances. Our Humble Office evaluates your situation and selects the appropriate method, such as:
- Independent administration – faster and less costly
- Dependent administration – increased court oversight
- Muniment of title – simplified probate when no administration is needed
- Small estate affidavit – for qualifying small estates
- Heirship determination – required when no valid will exists
We prepare all documentation, ensure accuracy, and file everything properly with the Harris County courts.
Gathering Required Documentation
Successful probate begins with gathering the right documents. Our office helps families collect:
- The original signed will
- Certified death certificates
- Financial statements (bank, retirement, insurance)
- Real property deeds and tax records
- Marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or birth certificates
- List of debts, liabilities, and creditor information
- Beneficiary names and contact details
Organizing these documents early helps prevent delays in court approval.
Coordinating Court Hearings
Most probate cases require at least one hearing where the judge validates the will and appoints an executor or administrator.
Our Humble Office assists clients by:
- Scheduling hearings with the proper probate court
- Preparing testimony for proving a will
- Submitting the required documents before the hearing
- Explaining courtroom expectations and processes
- Providing full legal representation at hearings
We ensure clients feel confident and fully prepared when appearing before the court.
Supporting Executors & Administrators
Executors are legally obligated to manage the estate correctly. Our Humble probate attorneys guide clients through:
- Taking the oath and receiving Letters Testamentary or Administration
- Locating and securing estate assets
- Notifying creditors and handling valid claims
- Managing estate finances and bank accounts
- Filing the Inventory, Appraisement, and List of Claims
- Preparing annual or final accountings
- Distributing property to beneficiaries
We help executors avoid mistakes and meet all legal requirements.
Handling Contested Probate Matters
Disputes can arise between heirs, beneficiaries, or family members and may delay probate. Our Humble probate litigation team handles:
- Will contests
- Allegations of undue influence or fraud
- Beneficiary disputes
- Executor misconduct claims
- Contested heirship matters
We aim for peaceful resolutions, but we are fully prepared to litigate when needed.
Probate Court Resources for Humble Families
Our Humble Office provides access to essential tools and local resources that simplify the probate process:
• Harris County Probate Court Directory
Includes court locations, contact information, clerk details, and e-filing instructions.
• Probate Forms & Filing Instructions
We assist with completing probate applications, inventories, creditor notices, and heirship documents.
• Local Court Rules & Requirements
We ensure compliance with Harris County’s unique filing procedures.
• Hearing Procedures & Expectations
We explain what happens at probate hearings and what documentation is required.
• Independent vs. Dependent Administration Guidance
We help families choose the best administration type for estate size and circumstances.
• Ongoing Legal Support
From filing to distribution, our attorneys provide continuous legal representation and support.
