Probate Law

Compassionate Guidance Through Estate Administration

When a loved one passes away, families in Cleburne and surrounding Johnson County communities face the complex legal process of probate. At Strother Law, PLLC, we understand that this is already a difficult time for families, and we are here to provide compassionate, knowledgeable guidance through every step of the probate process. Our firm has been serving families in Johnson and Somervell Counties since 2012, helping them navigate Texas probate law with clarity and care.

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's estate is administered and distributed according to their will or, if no will exists, according to Texas intestacy laws. Many families wonder when probate is actually required in Texas, and we help them understand their specific situation. We bring years of experience in Texas probate proceedings, combined with deep knowledge of local court procedures in Johnson County.

We handle everything from simple estate administrations to complex probate litigation, always keeping our clients informed and supported throughout the process. Understanding how long the probate process typically takes helps families plan accordingly during this challenging time.


Estate Administration

  • Independent Administration
    Streamlined probate process that reduces court involvement and allows for more efficient estate administration.

  • Dependent Administration
    Court-supervised probate when required by law or when independent administration is not appropriate.

  • Small Estate Affidavits
    Simplified procedures for estates that qualify under Texas small estate provisions.

Will Validation & Legal Proceedings

  • Will Validation
    Assistance with proving the validity of wills and resolving disputes that may arise during the probate process.

  • Muniment of Title
    Streamlined probate procedure for estates with no debts that allows for simplified property transfers.

  • Heirship Determinations
    Legal proceedings to establish rightful heirs when someone dies without a will.

Asset Protection & Distribution

  • Inventory and Appraisal
    Proper documentation and valuation of estate assets, working with qualified appraisers when necessary.

  • Creditor Claims Management
    Handling creditor notifications, claim reviews, and negotiations to protect the estate from improper claims.

  • Asset Distribution
    Ensuring proper distribution of estate assets according to the will or Texas intestacy laws.


Local Expertise in Johnson County & Somervell County Courts

Our familiarity with the Johnson County & Somervell County Courthouses and their respective local procedures gives our clients a significant advantage in probate proceedings. Cleburne probate attorney DeeAnn Strother understands the preferences of local judges, the expectations of court staff, and the specific requirements that can help expedite the probate process. This local knowledge, combined with our years of experience, allows us to navigate the system efficiently while ensuring all legal requirements are met.

We work closely with families to ensure that the probate process moves forward efficiently while honoring the wishes of the deceased and protecting the interests of beneficiaries. Our goal is to make this difficult time as smooth as possible for our clients, handling the legal complexities so they can focus on grieving and healing. We also have experience handling contested probate matters when disputes arise, always working to protect our clients' interests.

Probate Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Protecting Your Interests When Probate Becomes Contested

Brass scales of justice in front of leather-bound law books on shelves, overlaid with 'PROBATE LAW' text on a white bannerUnfortunately, not all probate proceedings proceed smoothly. When disputes arise over wills, estate administration, or beneficiary rights, our firm provides experienced representation to protect your interests. We handle will contests and estate disputes with the same compassionate approach we bring to all our legal services.

Our litigation experience includes representing both plaintiffs and defendants in probate disputes, giving us insight into all sides of contested probate matters. We work to resolve disputes through negotiation and mediation whenever possible, but we are fully prepared to advocate for our clients in court when litigation becomes necessary.

  • Will Contests and Challenges
    Representation in disputes over the validity of wills, including claims of undue influence, lack of capacity, or improper execution

  • Executor and Administrator Disputes
    Addressing conflicts over executor actions, including removal proceedings and breach of fiduciary duty claims

  • Beneficiary Rights Protection
    Ensuring that beneficiaries receive their rightful inheritance and have access to necessary estate information

  • Asset Recovery
    Pursuing estate assets that may have been improperly transferred or hidden from the estate

  • Mediation and Settlement Negotiations
    Working to resolve probate disputes outside of court through effective negotiation and alternative dispute resolution

Let Us Guide You Through This

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