We're Here To Guide You Through the Texas Probate Process

Contested Probate Attorney in Corpus Christi, Texas

 Experienced. Knowledgeable. Professional.

When a loved one passes away, disagreements over a will or estate can quickly turn an already difficult time into a legal battle. If you are involved in a contested probate matter in Texas, you need an attorney who understands both probate law and litigation strategy.

Snodgrass Law Firm represents clients in contested probate cases throughout Corpus Christi and South Texas. We help heirs, beneficiaries, executors, and administrators protect their rights and resolve estate disputes efficiently and effectively. Attorney R.F. Michael Snodgrass will guide you through the Probate process so you can distribute the assets to those meant to receive them as soon as possible. Please click the “Contact Us” button, email us at info@snodlaw.com, or call or text us at 361-239-8332 to set up a consultation at our office, by phone, or on Zoom.

What Is Contested Probate?

A probate becomes “contested” when one or more interested parties formally disputes some aspect of the estate administration. Common contested probate issues include:

• Challenges to the validity of a will

• Allegations of undue influence or coercion

• Claims of lack of testamentary capacity

• Disputes between heirs or beneficiaries

• Accusations of executor or administrator misconduct

• Disagreements over asset distribution

• Disputes involving non-probate assets and beneficiary designations

Contested probate cases are handled in Texas probate courts and often involve discovery, hearings, and sometimes trial.

Grounds for Contesting a Will in Texas

Under Texas law, a will may be contested for several reasons, including:

Lack of Testamentary Capacity

The testator must have understood the nature of their property, the natural objects of their bounty, and the effect of signing the will.

Undue Influence

A will may be invalid if someone exerted improper influence that overcame the testator’s free will.

Improper Execution

Texas law has strict requirements for how a will must be signed and witnessed.

Fraud or Forgery

Any deception or falsification related to the will may render it invalid.

Executor and Administrator Disputes

Executors and administrators owe fiduciary duties to the estate and its beneficiaries. Contested probate often arises when a personal representative:

• Fails to provide accountings

• Mismanages estate assets

• Engages in self-dealing

• Delays distributions

• Fails to follow the will or Texas law

We represent both beneficiaries seeking accountability and executors defending against unfounded claims.

Why Contested Probate Requires an Attorney

Unlike uncontested probate, contested matters involve strict deadlines, procedural rules, and evidentiary requirements. Mistakes can permanently affect your inheritance or expose you to liability.

An experienced contested probate attorney can:

• Evaluate the strength of your claim or defense

• Preserve evidence and meet statutory deadlines

• Conduct discovery and depositions

• Negotiate settlements when appropriate

• Represent you in probate court

Why Choose Snodgrass Law Firm

• Focused experience in Texas probate disputes

• Direct access to your attorney

• Clear communication and practical advice

• Strategic approach to litigation and settlement

We understand that contested probate matters are personal, emotional, and financially significant. Our goal is to protect your interests while working toward a resolution that makes sense for your situation.

If you need to appeal a will contest decision, appeal an executor removal, or appeal a probate court order, see our article “Appealing a Contested Probate Case in Texas.”

Serving Corpus Christi and South Texas

Snodgrass Law Firm represents clients in contested probate cases in Corpus Christi, Nueces County, and surrounding areas throughout the Coastal Bend. Contact Snodgrass Law Firm, PLLC today to schedule a consultation and learn how experienced legal representation can make a meaningful difference in your probate matter. Please email us at info@snodlaw.com or call or text us at 361-239-8332 to set up a consultation at our office, by phone, or on Zoom.

The PROBATE process

Probate is the legal process through which estate assets are transferred after death.

We can help make the process easier, more efficient, and provide peace of mind during a difficult time by winding up the deceased's affairs in the manner that requires the least amount of activity to conclude the administrative process.

During the Probate process, the Court determines whether the deceased's Last Will and Testament is valid, or—if there is no Will—uses Texas Intestacy Law.

The Court then works with the “Executor” or “Personal Representative” named in the Will (or an “Administrator” will be appointed if there is no Will) and the Executor’s Attorney to ensure that the deceased's wishes are carried out. 

probate IN TEXAS

 The Probate process can be complicated and even feel overwhelming because creditors need to be paid, assets need to be collected, and forms need to be filled out before the deceased's property is finally distributed to the beneficiaries.

Fortunately, Texas has simplified the Probate process through its system of Independent Administration which allows Executors and the Attorneys assisting them to do the necessary Estate Administration work largely independent of Court supervision. 

ADMINIStering the estate

However, even though Texas has a Probate process that is more streamlined and efficient than most other states, the process of administering an estate is still a tremendous amount of work, requires a lot of attention to detail, and contains many hard deadlines.

The Probate process involves the Executor appearing in Court at least once to "prove up" the Will and swear an oath, as well as contact beneficiaries, identify and preserve the deceased's property, pay legal obligations, and distribute the assets to the beneficiaries.

We would be happy to help you with all of this and look forward to working with you.  

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