How is an executor appointed? The person who wants to serve as an executor (or an administrator) must apply with the court for letters testamentary (or letters of administration). Even if the will nominates an executor, they must still apply and go through the approval process.
No. You are not required to hire a lawyer to file a Small Estate Affidavit in Texas. Many probate courts offer downloadable forms and clear instructions for filing.
An affidavit of heirship can be used to transfer title to real property when there are no debts of the estate and no administration is necessary. The affidavit must be signed by two disinterested witness who are familiar with the family history.
Probate courts attempt to carry out this role while protecting the interests of the beneficiaries and creditors involved. This process can take between two months to as long as two years, depending on the complexity of the estate.
Procedure — An Application for Determination of Heirship is filed with the court. The court then appoints an attorney ad litem for unknown heirs who will investigate the heirship facts of the decedent. After a hearing, the court will issue a Judgment Declaring Heirship which names the heirs of the estate.
In Texas, the surviving spouse and children will usually inherit all probate assets. If there are no children or grandchildren, the property may pass to the spouse, parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and/or other heirs, depending on the situation.
Cons. Asset limitations: TOD deeds are only applicable to real estate and cannot include other assets such as stocks, savings accounts, or personal possessions. State restrictions: TOD deeds aren't available in every state. Additionally, TOD deeds must be established in the state where the property is located.
If you don't have surviving parents, siblings (or their descendants) → Your estate is split equally between relatives on your mother's and father's side. If no relatives exist on either side → The estate escheats to the State of Texas, meaning the government takes ownership.
How is an executor appointed? The person who wants to serve as an executor (or an administrator) must apply with the court for letters testamentary (or letters of administration). Even if the will nominates an executor, they must still apply and go through the approval process.