Inheritance Attorney in Killeen, TX

Inheritance Situations We Handle in Killeen

Inheritance matters take many forms. Some clients come to us needing guidance on a straightforward estate; others are in the middle of a dispute that has already fractured a family. We assist clients across a wide range of situations.

• Intestate estates: When a loved one dies without a valid will, Texas intestate succession rules under the Texas Estates Code determine who inherits and in what share. We help heirs understand their rights and navigate the heirship determination process.
• Will contests: A will can be challenged in Texas on grounds including improper execution, lack of testamentary capacity, or undue influence by a third party who pressured the decedent near the end of life. We represent clients contesting a will or defending one against challenge.
• Executor disputes: Executors in Texas have a fiduciary duty to act in the estate’s best interest. When an executor fails to fulfill that duty, beneficiaries may petition the court for removal. We represent both heirs pursuing accountability and executors defending their administration.
• Beneficiary rights: If you believe you’ve been wrongfully excluded from an estate or that distributions aren’t being handled correctly, we can review the situation and advise you on your options.
• Estate planning to prevent disputes: We also provide comprehensive estate planning, including revocable living trusts, for clients who want to protect their assets and reduce inheritance complications for their families.

Probate matters in Bell County are heard in Bell County Court at Law No. 1. Familiarity with that court and its procedures matters when you need to move an estate forward efficiently.

How Texas Inheritance Law Works

Texas is a community property state. Property acquired during marriage is generally owned equally by both spouses, while separate property (assets owned before marriage, inherited property, or gifts made to one spouse) passes under different rules. This distinction can significantly affect what heirs receive.

Without a will, the Texas Estates Code governs distribution. If a surviving spouse exists, the share they receive depends on whether the decedent had descendants from outside the marriage and whether the property is community or separate. With a valid will, the estate still moves through probate: the court requires a filing, creditor notification, and approval of distributions before assets transfer to beneficiaries.

A valid Texas will must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by at least two credible individuals age 14 or older who were present at the signing. Uncontested probate cases with limited assets may resolve within six to twelve months. Contested estates, or those with significant or complex assets, can take considerably longer.