Houston Probate, Estate Planning & Guardianship Attorney

Clear legal guidance for planning ahead, protecting the people you love, and handling
important decisions after a death or during a period of incapacity.

Probate Services

Probate is the legal process used to address a persons estate after death. Depending on the
circumstances, the process may involve admitting a will to probate, appointing an executor or
administrator, identifying heirs, notifying interested parties, addressing valid debts, and transferring
property to the people legally entitled to receive it.

Abbage Law Group helps families understand what must be done and guides them through the required
filings and court procedures.

Our probate services may include:

• Probating a valid will
• Preparing an application for letters testamentary
•  Preparing an application for letters of administration
• Assisting with uncontested probate matters
• Handling estates in which the person died without a will
•  Assisting with heirship proceedings
• Guiding executors and administrators through their responsibilities
• Explaining notices, inventories, affidavits, and other required estate documents

Do I need to probate an estate?

Not every estate requires the same procedure. The appropriate approach depends on the property
involved, how the property was titled, whether valid beneficiary designations exist, whether the person
left a will, and whether disagreements or creditor issues are present. A consultation can help determine
which process may be appropriate before unnecessary paperwork or expense is incurred.

Estate Planning Services

Estate planning is not only about deciding what happens to property after death. A complete plan can
also identify the people who may make financial or medical decisions if you become unable to act for
yourself.

Abbage Law Group helps clients create understandable estate-planning documents tailored to their
families, property, goals, and concerns.

Estate-planning services may include:

• Last wills and testaments
• Statutory durable powers of attorney
•  Medical powers of attorney
• HIPAA authorizations
•  Directives to physicians
• Transfer-on-death deeds
• Review and coordination of a basic estate plan

Why estate planning matters?

Without clear documents, family members may be left uncertain about your wishes or may need court
involvement to obtain authority to act. Thoughtful planning can reduce confusion, identify trusted
decision-makers, and give you greater control over how personal, medical, and financial matters are
handled.

Adult Guardianship Services

A guardianship may be considered when an adult is unable to make or communicate certain personal
or financial decisions and appropriate alternatives are not sufficient. Because guardianship can affect
important legal rights, the circumstances and available alternatives should be reviewed carefully.

Abbage Law Group helps families understand the guardianship process, the evidence and court filings
that may be required, and the responsibilities that come with serving as a guardian.

Guardianship services may include:

• Adult guardianship matters
• Guardianship of the person
• Guardianship of the estate
• Preparation and filing of a guardianship application
• Guidance concerning required evaluations, notices, hearings, and court procedures
• Explanation of a proposed guardians duties and continuing responsibilities
•  Review of whether less restrictive alternatives may be available

How We Work With You

1. Initial consultation. We discuss the situation, your goals, and the documents or information
currently available.

2. Legal review. We identify the issues, explain possible options, and recommend an appropriate
next step.

3. Preparation. We prepare the approved estate-planning documents or the filings required for the
probate or guardianship matter.

4. Guidance through completion. We explain signing requirements, deadlines, hearings, and the
steps needed to complete the matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What happens if someone dies without a will?

When a person dies without a valid will, Texas law determines who may inherit. A court proceeding may
be needed to identify the heirs, appoint an administrator, and authorize the transfer of estate property.

• Does every will have to go through probate?

Not necessarily. The answer depends on the assets involved, how those assets are owned, and
whether beneficiary or transfer-on-death designations apply. An attorney can review the estate and
explain the available options.

• Do I need a trust?

Not every person or family needs a trust. The right plan depends on your property, family
circumstances, goals, and the level of management or control you want. A consultation can help
determine whether a will-based plan is sufficient or whether additional planning should be considered.

• When might an adult guardianship be needed?

Guardianship may be considered when an adult cannot adequately manage certain personal or
financial decisions and no appropriate, less restrictive arrangement is available. The need for
guardianship must be supported through the court process.

• Can we meet virtually?

Yes. Abbage Law Group is a Houston-based virtual law firm and offers convenient consultations by
video or telephone. The firm will explain when an in-person signing, evaluation, or court appearance
may be required.

Start With a Clear Plan

Whether you are planning for the future, handling a loved ones estate, or considering guardianship for
an adult family member, you do not have to determine the next steps alone. Schedule a consultation
with Abbage Law Group to discuss your situation and available options.