Probate Attorney  Tarrant County

Ironically enough, going to probate court over your estate isn’t really something you have to worry about. However, your family will thank you if you take a few steps towards keeping your estate out of the courts. As you may know, the probate process can take quite a bit of time. Furthermore, issues may arise that cause the process to take even longer. Typically, families prefer to avoid probate court unless there is a serious inheritance issue that needs to be addressed. That being said, it is indeed possible for your family to avoid going to probate court. However, you’ll need to make a few arrangements in order for that to happen.

Create a Living Trust

In some cases, you can avoid probate completely with a legalized living trust. You can place nearly any asset into a living trust. Because the assets are no longer your property but instead now belong to the trust, you can avoid the probate proceedings.

Designate a Beneficiary

A beneficiary is a person who your assets will transfer to upon your death. However, you can only have beneficiaries for certain types of assets, such as bank accounts. As an alternative, you can name a joint owner for your accounts. However, joint ownership allows a person also to access and use your assets while you are alive.

When You Gotta Go, You Gotta Go

Sometimes, the probate court is unavoidable. Even if you cover all of your basis, part of your estate might have to go through the probate process. For example, if someone contests your will, your family will likely have to go to court. If your estate does have to go through probate, let your family know that The Fetty Firm can help. Call (214) 546-5746 to learn more about how to prepare for the probate court process. You can also contact the law office of Rashelle Fetty online if you have any questions about estate planning, wills, or probate.