Because Probate Doesn’t Have to Be Another Crisis

When a loved on dies, the world doesn’t stop — even though it can feel like yours has.

Grief has its own timeline.

And legal and financial systems rarely respect yours.

That disconnect is where probate often becomes stressful — not because families are doing anything wrong, but because the process moves faster than their grief allows them to move.

At Craig A. Choate, PC, we guide families through probate with clarity, steadiness, and respect for the situation they’re in.

Whether an estate involves a will, no will at all, real estate, minor beneficiaries, or underlying family tension, our role is to help move the process forward efficiently while minimizing unnecessary conflict, delay, and confusion.

You don’t have to figure this out alone.
My role is to help you understand what matters now, what can wait, and what doesn’t need to become a fight.

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What Probate Usually Involves

Every estate is different, but most probate matters include some combination of the following:

  • Court filings and timelines
    Certain documents must be filed with the court, and required steps occur on a schedule set by the court.

  • Authority to act
    Someone is formally appointed to handle estate matters such as accessing accounts, paying bills, and signing documents.

  • Notice and creditor issues
    Creditors and interested parties may need to be notified, and valid claims addressed before assets can be distributed.

  • Distribution and wrap-up
    After required steps are completed, remaining assets are transferred and the estate is formally closed.

You Don’t Have to Have This All Figured Out

Some estates move quickly. Others take more time. Most fall somewhere in between.

What matters most is understanding what needs attention now, what can wait, and what doesn’t need to become a fight.

That’s because probate rarely unfolds in a straight line. There are moments when decisions are required quickly, and other stretches where patience matters more than action. For families already carrying grief, that uncertainty can be one of the hardest parts.

My role is to help you understand the process as it unfolds, keep expectations realistic, and reduce unnecessary stress along the way — so probate doesn’t become something heavier than it already is.

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Texas Probate FAQs

  • Probate is the legal process of settling a person’s estate after death. It involves validating a will (if one exists), appointing a personal representative, paying debts, and distributing assets. Texas probate can be more streamlined than in other states, but it still requires proper filings and court procedures.

  • Probate costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the estate, whether there is a valid will, and whether disputes arise. Expenses may include court filing fees, attorney’s fees, and costs associated with asset valuation or creditor issues.

    Straightforward independent administrations are generally more predictable and efficient, while contested estates or heirship proceedings can increase both time and cost.

    During an initial consultation, we review the specific circumstances of the estate and provide a clear outline of the expected process and fee structure.

  • Not always. Assets held in a trust, with beneficiary designations, or jointly with rights of survivorship may pass outside of probate. However, property owned solely in the decedent’s name often requires some form of probate to transfer legal title.

  • The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the estate and whether there are disputes. Some independent administrations move efficiently, while contested estates or creditor issues can extend the process. Proper preparation and timely filings help avoid unnecessary delay.

  • Texas allows many estates to proceed under independent administration, which reduces court supervision and can simplify the process. When available, it often allows the executor to manage estate affairs with fewer court approvals.

  • If a person dies intestate, Texas law determines who inherits and who may serve as administrator. The distribution follows statutory formulas, which may not reflect the decedent’s intentions. Court proceedings are required to establish heirs and administer the estate.

  • Thoughtful estate planning, including trusts and proper asset titling, can reduce or simplify probate. Planning in advance helps minimize court involvement, delay, and expense while providing clarity for surviving family members.