Probate, Estate, and Trust Administration in Marble Falls

What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process that validates a person’s will (if they had one) and oversees the management and distribution of their assets after they pass away. 

Probate ensures that:

• The deceased’s debts are properly paid.
• Legal titles to assets are correctly transferred.
  The beneficiaries receive what they are entitled to.
  
  

Not all assets have to go through probate. For example, life insurance policies with a named beneficiary, jointly owned property, and assets held in a properly funded trust typically pass directly to heirs outside of probate.

At Texas Trust Law, we help families in Marble Falls determine what must go through probate and what can be transferred by other means, always aiming for the most efficient solution possible.

Types of Probate Proceedings in Texas

Different estates require different probate processes. Here are the most common types we help Marble Falls families navigate:

Independent Administration

Independent administration is the most common and efficient form of probate in Texas. If the will names an independent executor—or if all heirs agree—the court allows the executor to handle most tasks without court supervision. This helps speed up the process and reduce costs.

At Texas Trust Law, we guide independent executors through every responsibility they have, from gathering assets to filing final tax returns.

Dependent Administration

When there is significant conflict among heirs, a missing or invalid will, or complex creditor claims, the court may require dependent administration. This form of probate requires court approval for almost every action, making the process more time-consuming and expensive.

Our attorneys help families manage these situations with precision and patience, ensuring each step complies with the law and protects the estate’s interests.

Muniment of Title

If the deceased left a valid will and no debts other than a mortgage, the estate might qualify for a simplified procedure called Muniment of Title. This process bypasses complete probate administration, allowing property titles to be transferred based solely on the terms of the will.

We help Marble Falls families determine if a Muniment of Title is an option to save time and money.

Small Estate Affidavit

When an estate is valued at $75,000 or less (excluding the homestead), a Small Estate Affidavit can sometimes be used to transfer assets without formal probate.

Our team reviews each family’s circumstances to see if this easier route is available, streamlining asset transfer when possible.

The Role of the Executor or Personal Representative

If you’ve been named as an executor or personal representative in a loved one’s will, you have a legal responsibility to:

• Locate and manage all assets
• Pay outstanding debts and taxes
• Distribute the estate according to the will, or Texas law if no will exists
• Keep accurate records and report to the probate court as needed

It’s an important and serious job. Many executors feel overwhelmed at first, but you don’t have to do it alone. Texas Trust Law works closely with executors in Marble Falls to ensure that nothing is overlooked, thereby minimizing the likelihood of future family conflicts or court issues.

Why Choose Texas Trust Law for Probate and Estate Administration?

At Texas Trust Law, we understand that probate isn’t just a legal process—it’s a deeply personal one. Our attorneys combine decades of experience with a compassionate, faith-driven approach. We listen carefully to your needs, clearly explain your options, and guide you through each stage with confidence.

Key reasons 

• LifePlanning™ Legal Services that adapt as your family’s needs evolve.
• Board-Certified Attorneys Brad Wiewel, Rob Hugos, and Melissa Donovan
• Transparent, fixed fees with no surprise billing
• Ongoing communication so you’re never left wondering about the status of the case

Families across Texas—including Austin, Georgetown, Horseshoe Bay, San Antonio, and now Marble Falls—trust us because we make complex legal processes simple and accessible.

What Happens If There’s No Will?

When someone dies without a will (known as an intestate), Texas law determines how the estate is distributed. This can lead to unexpected results and complicated court proceedings.

Our Marble Falls probate attorneys help families navigate intestate succession, ensuring that:

• Legal requirements are met
• Heirs are identified properly
• The estate is distributed fairly, per Texas law

Having a knowledgeable legal team by your side is especially important when no clear plan has been left behind.