Resources

Plain-English guides

Short, honest explanations of the legal questions we hear most. General information about Texas law, written by our attorneys.

What happens in Texas probate
A plain-English walk-through of the steps, the timeline and the costs, from the first weeks to closing the estate.
By Catherine Calder · 3-minute read · Updated November 2, 2026
Do I need a will or a trust?
What each one does, what each one costs, and simple rules of thumb for Texas families.
By Catherine Calder · 2-minute read · Updated October 30, 2026

General information about Texas law. Not legal advice.

Glossary

Words you’ll hear

Legal terms that come up in our meetings, in plain English.

Executor: The person named in a will to settle the estate: gather property, pay bills and pass the rest to the beneficiaries.
Probate: The court process that confirms a will is valid and gives the executor legal authority to act.
Letters testamentary: The court document that proves an executor’s authority. Banks ask to see it.
Heirs: The relatives who inherit under Texas law when someone dies without a will.
Power of attorney: A document that lets someone you choose handle money or medical decisions for you.
Conservatorship: The Texas word for custody: who makes decisions for a child, and who the child lives with.
Mediation: A meeting with a neutral person who helps both sides reach an agreement without a trial.
Registered agent: The person or company with a Texas address that receives legal papers for a business.

Next step

Ask us. 30 minutes with an attorney is $150, credited to your fee if you hire us.