Intestate Succession Lawyer Serving Beaumont And Across Texas
A death without a will can leave your family in a painful and uncertain place. Family disputes, unintended heirs and court delays add legal stress to an already difficult time. At The Brinkley Law Firm, we understand what you are facing. Attorney Dean Brinkley has practiced law in the Beaumont area for more than 30 years. His roots in Jefferson County mean he knows this community and its families. We are here to help.
What Is Intestate Succession In Texas?
When someone dies without a valid will in Texas, the law considers them to have died intestate. Without proper estate planning, intestate succession laws step in and the court divides the estate. Here is what typically happens in a Texas intestate estate:
- The probate court opens the estate case
- The court appoints an administrator to manage the estate
- The administrator identifies and notifies heirs
- The court determines heirs under Texas law
- The administrator distributes remaining assets to legal heirs
- The administrator settles outstanding debts and expenses
- The court divides remaining assets among legal heirs
This process often takes months, but an intestate succession attorney can help your family navigate every step.
How Does Texas Determine Who Inherits Without A Will?
Texas law follows a strict order based on your family situation. Here is how the state divides assets in common scenarios:
- Married with mutual children: The spouse inherits all community property. Texas law divides separate property between the surviving spouse and the children.
- Married without children: The surviving spouse inherits community property. Separate property may pass to the deceased’s parents or siblings, depending on whether the separate property is personal property or real estate (land).
- Single with children: Children inherit the estate in equal shares.
- Single without children: Parents inherit first, then siblings or their descendants.
- Blended families: Only biological and legally adopted children of the deceased inherit; stepchildren have no automatic inheritance rights.
- No surviving spouse or children: The nearest living relatives inherit the estate.
The result depends on your situation and may not match what your loved one wanted.
Your Family Deserves A Clear Path Forward
Your family has already faced enough uncertainty. As an active and established member of the Beaumont community, Dean Brinkley brings a personal commitment to every family he serves. Call the firm at 409-359-8895 or reach out to us online to schedule your consultation.