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How Intestacy Can Impact A Loved One’s Estate

It cannot be overstated how important it is to adopt a will. Not only does a will ensure your loved ones will be taken care of, but proper estate planning can help avoid certain taxes and other legal requirements for the distribution of property.

If an individual passes before leaving a will, Texas intestate succession laws will guide the distribution of his or her assets. These laws are complex and have many stipulations, so loved ones will need the help of an experienced Texas probate lawyer to distribute assets.

Texas Intestate Succession Laws

The Texas intestate succession laws outline how assets of an estate should be administered if there is no will. However, only assets that would have been distributed through a will are subject to intestacy laws. Things like property transferred via a trust, life insurance payouts, or a co-owned asset are excluded from intestate succession proceedings.

Determining who gets what after a loved one passes away without a will is incredibly complicated in Texas. The distribution of assets can be broken down by what types of surviving relatives are left behind.

If you leave behind:

  • Children, but no spouse, parents or siblings — Your children will receive all of your assets distributed equally.
  • A spouse, but no children, parents or siblings — Your spouse will inherit all of your assets.
  • Parents, but no children, spouse or siblings — Your parents will receive all of your assets, shared equally.
  • Siblings, but no children, spouse or parents — Your siblings will equally share all of your assets.
  • A spouse and children — Your spouse will inherit any community property, 1/3 of your personal property and the right to use your real estate property for life. Your children will inherit everything else.
  • A spouse and parents — Your spouse will receive all of your community and personal property and half of your separate real estate, while your parents inherit everything else.
  • A spouse and siblings — Your spouse will receive all of your community and personal property and half of your separate real estate, while your siblings share your remaining assets.

In addition, Texas has specific provisions and exceptions for grandchildren, nieces and nephews, stepchildren, posthumous relatives, and many other unique situations.

Hensley & Krueger, PLLC: Texas Intestacy Lawyers

If you suffered the loss of a loved one, you don’t need the burden of trying to figure out Texas’ complex intestacy laws. At Hensley & Krueger, PLLC, we can handle the distribution of your loved one’s estate for you, ensuring all beneficiaries receive their rightful share. Email us or call 713-570-6422 to get started.