Probate a Will in Austin

Ensure your family’s financial security

Estate planning and administration are complicated processes, but they can ultimately bring about peace of mind and security for all concerned, especially when you take advantage of legal guidance to help you navigate through the maze.  Our probate lawyers in Austin can help you with your estate.

Some Probate lawyers in Austin firms may boast that all you need to do to have a valid will is simply complete some online form. But since he founded his firm in 1979, John L. Mendez, a probate lawyer in Austin, Tx , has seen those wills rarely stand up in court. When your family’s peace of mind is at stake, take the time to get skilled, legal counsel.

Practice areas

John L. Mendez answers your probate and will questions

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process of administering an estate after someone dies. It includes the following:

• Proving in court that a deceased person’s will is valid
• Identifying and inventorying the deceased person’s property
• Property appraisal
• Paying debts and taxes
• Distributing property as directed by a will
• Transferring title and ownership of assets to the property beneficiaries

Can I contest a will or trust?

Yes, when the person who wrote the will or trust was forced, deceived, mentally incompetent, or duly influenced.

What happens if someone dies without a will?

The state of Texas divides the deceased person’s estate among his or her immediate family members.

What is a trust?

When you set up a trust, you designate someone or an institution such as a bank as a trustee to own your property. The trustee invests and manages your assets for the benefit of your beneficiaries.

What are the duties and obligations of an executor or personal representative?

The executor or personal representative follows state law to wrap up the decedent’s affairs, including the following:

• Giving proper notice to all concerned
• Collecting the decedent’s property
• Receiving claims against the estate
• Paying valid claims and disputing others
• Distributing estate property according to the will or state law

Selling estate property to cover debts or allow for proper distribution may also be necessary.

Contact John L. Mendez, Attorney at Law, dedicated to your fair treatment

For your estate planning, estate administration, probate and wills, simply contact John L. Mendez, Attorney at Law, online or call 512-478-3363. We offer flexible hours, parking, and are conveniently located near mass transit. Se habla español.