Best Probate Lawyers in Sugar Land

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Sugar Land, Texas?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Sugar Land Police Department is 281-275-2020.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Sugar Land, Texas?

  Copies of police reports related to probate cases in Sugar Land can be obtained from the Records Division at 1200 Highway 6 South or through the City Secretary’s Office at 2700 Town Center Boulevard North. Requests can also be submitted in person, by mail, by email, or by fax at 281-275-2293. The Records Unit can be reached at 281-275-2590 and is open from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Which probate court presides over estate administration for individuals in Sugar Land?

  Fort Bend County probate courts preside over estate administration for individuals in Sugar Land. The county does not have statutory probate courts. Uncontested probate matters are heard by the courts on designated Monday afternoons. Each court that hears probate cases is located in Richmond. The judges of all six courts have agreed to the county's local court rules. However, each judge has his or her own method of hearing cases.

• How do family members become entitled to a share of a Sugar Land decedent’s probate estate?

  Family members of a decedent in Sugar Land are entitled to a portion of the estate through the law of intestate succession. This law specifies which family members receive a share of the deceased’s property, with or without a will. Through the terms of the will, the decedent’s family members inherit a portion of the estate. The terms of the will override the default rules of intestate succession.

• What are examples of small estates and assets that are excluded from probate in Sugar Land and the state of Texas?

  Estates in Sugar Land with assets worth less than $75,000 are exempt from the probate process. Furthermore, assets owned in joint tenancy with a right of survivorship are not probated under Texas law. Retirement funds and life insurance plans with chosen beneficiaries are also considered non-probate assets.

• Do personal representatives get paid for administering a Sugar Land decedent’s estate?

  Personal representatives in Sugar Land receive reimbursement for justified out-of-pocket expenses incurred throughout the process of managing and distributing the decedent's estate. They may also be entitled to statutory fees, which vary depending on the location and size of the probate estate. Personal representatives need to hire the services of an attorney or an accountant to help them carry out their fiduciary duties on behalf of the estate.

• What is the cost and length of probate in Sugar Land?

  The cost and duration of probate in Sugar Land vary depending on the value and complexity of the estate, the existence of a will, and the location of real property. Any contests or disputes with creditors over the estate's debts can also add time and fees. Common expenses of an estate include appraisal costs, executor's fees, and court fees. If no litigation is involved, the majority of estates are settled through probate in about 9 to 18 months.