document sealed with wax

Probate Litigation

Legal disputes over probate can be costly and time-consuming, especially when trying to prove a person's undue influence on a will. A probate litigation attorney can ensure your fiduciary concerns are addressed and your family members are cared for. Attorney Randy Michel brings more than five decades of legal knowledge to every probate case. Visit his law office in College Station, TX.

About Probate: Here Are the Basics

/

Probate is a process by which a deceased person's estate is settled. This will involve identifying all of the deceased's assets, paying taxes and debts, and distributing the remainder of the estate to beneficiaries. Keep in mind that probate occurs even if the deceased did not have a will.

Need Help with a Probate Dispute? Speak with a Probate Litigation Attorney Today

Probate litigation and related disputes can be complicated, expensive, and emotionally exhausting. You need an attorney on your side who can make sure your loved one's wishes are properly carried out.

Whether you are the executor of an estate or a family member who feels like they've been shut out, attorney Randy Michel can help make your voice heard. He's proudly served College Station, Bryan, and surrounding Texas communities for decades. His team will address your concerns so you understand every step of the probate process and what it means for the estate.

To request a probate litigation consultation, contact our law firm today. You can also reach our College Station law office by phone.

(979) 764-2435

The Law Office of Randy Michel
The Law Office of Randy Michel can help people in and around College Station and Bryan, TX, with probate litigation and estate disputes.

Here to Help During a Difficult Time A Client Shares Her Experience

"I couldn't be more grateful to Randy Michel and his team for all their help after the unexpected loss of my husband. They were so kind, helpful, understanding, and often going above and beyond for our family while we went through the most painful event of our lives. Thank you Randy Michel, Andrea, and the entire team. I will forever be grateful for you all!" Karen Strope

Understanding Probate Law: We Will Explain the Process to You

/

Probate can become complicated. Mr. Michel can help explain concepts using everyday language and practical examples. This ability to break down complex aspects of the law is why he remains a trusted probate litigation attorney in this part of Texas.

Typical Probate Timeline

Many probate proceedings take 9-12 months to complete, yet many factors can affect the length of the process.
Many probate proceedings take 9-12 months to complete, yet many factors can affect the length of the process.

Filing Application for Probate

The deceased's will is filed with the court along with an application for probate. A notice is posted at the courthouse for at least 10 days, allowing interested parties to contest the will. Wills can be contested for up to two years once they've been admitted for probate.

Validating the Will

During a hearing, a judge will recognize the death of the decedent and review the validity of the will. The executor named in the will is verified or an administrator is named.

Notice to Beneficiaries and Creditors

The executor or administrator notifies all beneficiaries named in the will. The executor or administrator must also notify any of the decedent's creditors.

Inventory of Assets

The executor or administrator must make sure that the decedent's estate is appraised within 90 days of the hearing.

Paying Debts and Filing Taxes

All of the decedent's debts must be settled. A final tax return must also be filed.

Distributing the Remaining Assets

Once all debts have been settled and tax obligations fulfilled, the remaining assets from the estate can then be distributed.

What Happens If
There Is No Will?

/

If a person dies without a will, their assets are distributed according to Texas intestate succession laws. The way assets are split will vary and depend on any spouses, siblings, children, and parents involved. If you want to make sure certain beneficiaries are guaranteed a part of your estate, you should discuss estate planning with a law firm.

Estate Planning by a
Probate Litigation Attorney

Good estate planning can help you prevent litigation and ensure your executor performs their fiduciary duties. A lawyer for more than five decades, Mr. Michel has helped countless beneficiaries throughout College Station and Bryan, TX.

Avoid Will and Trust Litigation

When you consult with our lawyer as you plan your estate, he will work to ensure your beneficiaries receive the assets you want them to. Our attorney will also make sure you select a sound fiduciary to execute your estate.

Ways Around Probate

With good estate planning, your lawyer may identify ways to avoid probate. This includes setting up a living trust and making beneficiary designations on bank accounts, life insurance policies, and other select assets.

Lawyer Randy Michel and staff

"Randy and his staff guided me through the entire process." A Lawyer Who Prioritizes Patience and Understanding

1

Nick Virgl

2020

Google logo

I do not have enough positive things to say about Randy Michel and his office. After my father passed away, I had no idea how to handle an estate or where to even begin. Randy and his staff guided me through the entire process with ease. They were not only kind and compassionate but very helpful and knowledgeable. It was never difficult to schedule a time to meet with Randy or get assistance from one of his paralegals. They were very communicative with me throughout the entire process. I am very glad I went with Randy and hope that many others do as well.

View on Google
1

Wayne Evans

2020

Google logo

My wife and I highly recommend Randy and his staff for estate planning and will preparation. He articulates the legalese in simple English being knowledgeable and professional. He listens carefully, makes excellent recommendations and follows through in a timely and cost conscious manner. He quoted a fixed price for this work, provided everything we needed, made all changes requested, never trying to add more fees for additional services. Hopefully we won't need an attorney again, but we would definitely use him if the occasion arose. We will recommend him to others and I'm sure they will be pleased.

View on Google
Randy Michel

Law Office of Randy Michel

The Law Office of Randy Michel provides family-oriented legal services to clients in the greater College Station, TX, area. Our attorney, Randy Michel, hold several distinctions and are affiliated with prestigious organizations:

  • National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
  • Brazos County Bar Association
  • National Association of Juvenile and Family Court Judges
  • State Bar of Texas
  • Kentucky Bar Association
  • Members of the Premier 100 Trial Attorneys 
  • Board-Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
  • Awarded Pro Bono Honors for community involvement
  • Certification as a mediator and arbitrator

To schedule an appointment or to learn more about how our law firm can serve your needs, contact us online or call (979) 764-2435.

Contact Us Today






"Randy Michel is an honorable guy, who ensures you are well cared for and fully aware of all legal nuances, no matter what."

Rate, Review & Explore

Social Accounts Sprite