Experienced Representation For Thorny Inheritance Disputes In Houston And Beyond
A death in the family brings forth many emotions. Genuine grief and happy memories, but also jealousy, greed, anger and suspicion. Where families and money are involved, things can get messy, escalating to feuds and even legal action.
At Law Thompson, P.C. in Houston, you are represented by a trial lawyer with more than 30 years of experience. We represent heirs and beneficiaries, excluded heirs, and executors and personal representatives in probate litigation and out-of-court resolution of inheritance disputes.
Probate And Estate Litigation
Travis Thompson is the courtroom veteran you want in your corner when the specter of litigation arises. He has dealt with many scenarios arising out of estate administration, including accusations of :
- Fraud or forgery in relation to the will
- Undue influence over the deceased
- Misappropriation of assets of the estate
- Lack of testamentary capacity
- Breach of fiduciary duty by the executor
Do you suspect foul play in the most recent version of the will? Were you unexpectedly disinherited? Did family members start helping themselves to heirlooms that were designated in the will? Have you been accused of mishandling your estate administration duties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Probate Disputes
Below are answers to common questions about probate disputes:
What are the most common reasons for probate litigation?
Probate litigation often arises from conflicts over the validity of a will or the administration of an estate. Common reasons include:
- Claims of fraud, forgery or undue influence
- Executor misconduct
- Conflicts over unclear or missing provisions in the will
- Competing claims to property
These disputes can become contentious, especially when large sums of money or significant assets are involved.
Do I need a probate litigation lawyer, or can another type of lawyer handle this?
While other attorneys may have a basic understanding of probate matters, a probate litigation lawyer brings specialized knowledge and courtroom experience. A probate litigation attorney is well-equipped to handle detailed investigations, manage sensitive family dynamics and represent your interests in court if necessary.
What should I do if I suspect something is wrong with the handling of an estate?
If you notice missing assets, unexplained transactions or other irregularities, take immediate action. Start by gathering documents and records related to the estate such as the will, financial statements and correspondence. An attorney can help you file legal claims, request an accounting of the estate and, if needed, petition the court to remove or hold accountable an executor or administrator.
What are the signs of inheritance theft, and how can a probate litigation attorney help me investigate and stop it?
Signs of inheritance theft include missing assets, sudden changes to the will or discrepancies in estate accounting. A probate litigation attorney can uncover evidence, challenge improper actions and pursue legal remedies to recover stolen property.
Can a probate litigation attorney help me resolve disputes over the inherited ownership of a family business?
Yes, family business disputes often involve complex legal and financial issues, including shareholder rights, management control and fair division of assets. A probate litigation attorney can help negotiate solutions that preserve the business’s value while addressing competing claims. If negotiation fails, the attorney can represent you in court to assert your ownership rights and work toward a resolution that aligns with the deceased’s intentions and your legal interests.
Can We Settle This Peaceably?
Probate disputes cause rifts at a time when the family needs healing. We strive to resolve probate conflicts swiftly and discreetly when possible by offering practical solutions. However, if the other parties have already initiated a lawsuit or will not negotiate in good faith, Travis Thompson is prepared to advocate for you in court and forcefully protect your legal and financial interests.
We invite you to address your concerns and explore your options in a free consultation. Call our Houston law office at 281-369-8665 or reach out by email. We practice in the probate courts of Harris, Montgomery and surrounding counties.