Contact Information
Address:
1302 Washington Street, Laredo, Texas, 78040
The Law Office of Adrian Chapa, III provides comprehensive legal services focused exclusively on probate and guardianship matters. Our experienced team is dedicated to a client-first approach, offering knowledgeable guidance for estate administration, probate litigation, estate planning, and related services like Affidavits of Heirship and Small Estate Affidavits. We are committed to ensuring the fair and efficient resolution of your loved one's estate, always striving for the best possible outcome.
1302 Washington Street, Laredo, Texas, 78040
Law Office of Adrian Chapa III
Located at 1302 Washington Street, Laredo, Texas, 78040, the Law Office of Adrian Chapa III provides dedicated legal services focused exclusively on probate law for clients in the Laredo area.
Probate law deals with the legal process of settling estates after a person's death. This includes managing the distribution of assets according to the deceased person's will or state law if no will exists (intestate succession). Our firm handles a range of probate matters, from straightforward estate administration to complex cases involving contested wills or beneficiaries.
At the Law Office of Adrian Chapa III, we understand that navigating probate can be a stressful time for families. Our goal is to provide clear, compassionate, and effective legal representation to help clients fulfill their legal obligations and achieve a fair resolution for the estate. We focus on managing the administrative aspects of probate, including inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining assets according to the wishes of the deceased or the law.
Whether you are an executor named in a will, a personal representative appointed by the court, or a concerned family member seeking information about an inheritance, our team is here to guide you through the process. We handle probate matters for estates of all sizes and complexities within the Laredo community.
Contact us today at (956) 723-5520 or visit our website texastrophylawyer.com to learn more about how our probate services can assist you during this challenging time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is probate and do I need a lawyer for my loved one's estate in Laredo?
Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's estate is administered and their assets are distributed according to their will or state law. While small, simple estates might be handled without legal assistance, probate often involves complex legal requirements and potential disputes. An attorney from the Law Office of Adrian Chapa III can help ensure the process is handled correctly and efficiently for your specific situation in Laredo.
Q2: How long does the probate process typically take in Laredo?
The duration of probate in Laredo can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the estate, whether there are disputes among beneficiaries, the value of the assets, and whether the will is contested. Simple probate cases might take a few months, while more complex cases can extend over a year or longer. Our firm works to manage the process effectively to help meet timelines.
Q3: What are the costs associated with probate services in Laredo?
Probate attorney fees are typically based on a percentage of the estate's assets successfully administered and distributed. The specific fee arrangement can vary. We offer clear fee structures and discuss costs during your initial consultation at our Laredo office.
Q4: Can I still claim an inheritance if I wasn't named in the will?
In Laredo, Texas, inheritance rights depend on the validity of the will and applicable state intestacy laws if no will exists. If you believe you have a valid claim under the will or state law (e.g., as a surviving spouse or dependent child), you may be able to petition the court to be appointed as an heir or beneficiary. Our attorney can advise you on your specific rights and options.
Q5: Is there an alternative to probate for settling an estate in Laredo?
Yes, a simpler alternative is often available if the deceased person left a valid properly executed Living Trust. Assets held in a living trust typically bypass the probate process. If there is a living trust, the successor trustee manages the distribution of assets according to the trust document, avoiding the need for court-supervised probate in Laredo.