Houston Probate Litigation Attorneys
Our probate estate litigation lawyers are leaders in the industry and recognized by our peers and community as some of the best attorneys in not only Houston but Texas at large. We have decades of firsthand experience in the intricacies of probate disputes, representing clients such as executors, administrators, heirs, beneficiaries, spouses, and creditors so they can move on with life sooner with the best possible result.
What Is Probate Estate Litigation?
Probate estate litigation involves legal disputes that arise during the administration of a deceased person’s estate. In Houston, these disputes commonly center around the validity of a will, the actions of an executor or administrator, or disagreements among heirs and beneficiaries. Cases may involve allegations of undue influence, lack of capacity, mismanagement of estate assets, or contested distributions. These matters often involve both emotional and financial complexities, especially in high-value estates or blended families.
The purpose of probate litigation is to ensure the decedent’s wishes are honored, the estate is administered according to Texas law, and beneficiaries’ rights are protected throughout the process.
Our Houston Probate Litigation Team
At RMO Lawyers, our Houston probate litigation attorneys represent clients in a wide range of estate disputes with care, precision, and experience. Whether the issue involves a contested will, removal of an executor, or claims of breach of fiduciary duty, we are committed to resolving disputes efficiently and effectively.
Our team is known for providing thoughtful legal strategies, clear communication, and strong advocacy in and out of the courtroom. Rooted in a deep understanding of Texas probate law and local court practices, we help clients across Houston and surrounding areas navigate some of life’s most difficult moments with professionalism and compassion.
Our Houston Office
To assist the people of Texas, RMO Lawyers provides easy access to our conveniently located Houston office.
Attorney Spotlight
Matthew Bourque
Managing Attorney - Dallas & Houston
As one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Houston presents both exciting opportunities and distinct challenges in estate cases. Known for its diverse and rapidly expanding economy, Houston is home to a broad range of industries, from energy and healthcare to technology and international trade. This creates a complex web of legal considerations in trust litigation, especially when dealing with business succession issues, multi-million dollar estates, high-net-worth individuals, and complex family dynamics.
Client Testimonials
See how our clients felt about their case with our Houston trust litigation attorneys.
Probate Estate Litigation Services We Offer in Houston
Probate estate litigation cases are highly complex and difficult to navigate during an already emotional time with the loss of a loved one. Our Houston probate estate litigation law firm offers all the following services.
Our Awards
Frequently Asked Questions About Probate Estate Litigation in Houston
How long does probate estate litigation take in Houston?
The length of a probate dispute in Houston depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the number of parties involved, and whether the case is resolved through settlement or goes to trial. Some matters may conclude within a few months, while more contested cases, such as will challenges or claims of fiduciary misconduct, can take a year or longer. Our team always works to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while protecting your legal and financial interests.
What does probate estate litigation cost in Houston?
The cost of probate litigation in Houston varies depending on the scope of the dispute, how many legal filings are required, and whether the matter is settled early or litigated in court. At RMO Lawyers, we discuss fees clearly and upfront so you can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
Does RMO Lawyers handle mediation or alternative dispute resolution in probate cases?
Yes. We frequently use mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to help families resolve probate disputes efficiently and cost-effectively. In many situations, mediation can help avoid the stress and delays of trial while still achieving a favorable result.
Is there a fee for an initial consultation with RMO Lawyers in Houston?
No. We provide a free consultation for probate estate litigation matters. During your consultation, we will review your situation, explain your options, outline potential costs, and recommend next steps based on your goals.
What types of probate estate disputes does RMO Lawyers handle in Houston?
We represent clients in a wide range of probate disputes across the Houston area, including contested wills, allegations of undue influence or fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, conflicts involving executors or administrators, and elder financial abuse. Whether you are asserting a claim or defending against one, our team is here to protect your rights and your loved one’s legacy.
Why Hire a Probate Litigation Lawyer in Houston
When facing a probate estate dispute in Houston, it is crucial to work with an attorney who understands not only Texas probate law but also the unique character of the local communities, and families. Houston’s size, diversity, and economic complexity mean that estate matters often involve family-owned businesses, real estate portfolios, oil and gas assets, and multi-generational wealth. These cases can require specialized knowledge of both legal and financial issues, especially when disputes arise among heirs or fiduciaries.
Our probate litigation attorneys in Houston have deep experience navigating contested estates throughout Harris County and the surrounding region. We understand the nuances of the local probate courts and have built strong relationships with the legal and civic community. Whether your case involves a contested will, breach of fiduciary duty, or questions about an executor’s conduct, we provide strategic, results-driven representation rooted in professionalism, discretion, and compassion.
If you’re dealing with a probate issue in Houston, our team is ready to help protect your rights and pursue a resolution that honors your family’s legacy.
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Get trusted guidance and resolution in your probate litigation case – contact our Houston probate lawyers today for a free consultation.
Client Testimonials
See how our clients felt about their case with our Houston trust litigation attorneys.
Houston Probate Case Scenarios
Our probate estate litigation attorneys have a reputation for protecting people and defending legacies, demonstrated by our track record of successful cases.
Who We Represent in Houston Probate Cases
Cases of probate estate litigation are complex and have strong implications for many interested parties. RMO LLP represents interested parties on all sides of the issue so they understand their legal rights and can achieve an appropriate resolution, including all the following clients across Houston.
Executors & Administrators
We can help estate representatives understand their duties and responsibilities to mitigate the risk of disputes from arising. However, if you do find that your appointment or administration efforts are being challenged, we are equipped to support you in litigation. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate and litigate or resolve disputes stemming from competing probate petitions, will contests, breach of fiduciary duty claims, petitions for instructions, or petitions for removal.
Beneficiaries & Heirs
Identified beneficiaries and legal heirs are often directly affected by will and inheritance disputes as they have a direct stake in the outcome. The Houston probate estate litigation lawyers at RMO work diligently to protect the rights of beneficiaries and heirs while safeguarding their interests, offering representation in mediation or litigation, contesting amendments, and building a strategy to secure their rightful distribution of assets.
Spouses
Surviving spouses have unique rights during probate estate litigation. Our probate estate litigation attorneys in Houston work with spouses to ensure they understand these rights and can smoothly navigate any inheritance disputes in order to reclaim what is rightfully theirs. We’ll offer legal counsel for spousal claims, representation in litigation or negotiation, and more while serving as an empathetic partner throughout.
Creditors
Creditors must follow specific procedures and timelines in the probate process or risk missing out on recovering the debts they are owed. If you are a creditor with a claim that was not properly resolved, our Houston lawyers can support you in understanding the potential legal avenues for pursuing what’s rightfully yours, whether through litigation or mediation.
Houston Probate Courts
The Harris County Probate Courts are a statutorily created probate court system headed by elected judges. In general, a probate court does the following:
- Probates the wills of deceased persons
- Declares the heirs of deceased persons who die without a will
- Establishes guardianships for incapacitated persons and minors
- Supervises court-ordered involuntary mental health commitments in Houston and the rest of Harris County.
A probate court also has jurisdiction to hear lawsuits appertaining to or incident to an estate of a decedent or ward, as well as actions by or against a personal representative of a decedent’s or ward’s estate. These ancillary cases cover a long list of topics, ranging from product liability to fiduciary litigation and medical malpractice to family law.
Probate Courts in Houston
Probate litigation in Houston and Harris County is managed by the Superior Court of Texas, specifically through the Harris County statutory probate courts. There is no single Harris County Probate Court. Instead, five separate statutory probate courts handle these matters, all based at the Harris County Civil Courthouse:
Address: Harris County Probate Court – 201 Caroline Street, Houston, TX 77002
Probate Court 1
- Judge: Jerry W. Simoneaux, Jr.
- Main Number: 832-927-1401
Probate Court 2
- Judge: Pamela Medina
- Main Number: 832-927-1402
Probate Court 3
- Judge: Jason A. Cox
- Main Number: 832-927-1403
Probate Court 4
- Judge: James Horwitz
- Main Number: 832-927-1404
Probate Court 5
- Judge: Fran Watson
- Main Number: 832-927-1405
- Website: Harris County Probate Court
Houston Will And Estate Legal Forms
The attorneys at RMO LLP can assist you in identifying and filing the necessary forms that may be applicable to your case during probate administration or litigation. Probate forms in Texas vary by county. For localized forms and additional resources related specifically to Houston, you can search the Harris County Probate Court – Forms website or the Harris County Clerk’s Office website.
Why Hire RMO Lawyers
At RMO Lawyers, probate disputes are our strength. Through fierce advocacy and a person-first approach, our Houston attorneys help clients get better real-world disputes sooner so they can move on with their lives. We’re driven by a passion for protecting people and defending legacies, never losing sight of our clients, their goals, and their best interests.
Our core values are at the heart of everything we do
- Lead with Integrity
- Precision-Driven Results
- Stronger Together
For our Houston clients, these values mean that we’ll take the time to personally listen to you, understand the unique family dynamics influencing your situation, and gather all the facts of your case. With this context, we’ll create a winning strategy for your case to help you achieve the best possible outcome in as little time as possible.
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