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Keith and his team were fantastic. We had heard horror stories of the probate process but our experience was fast and ...
- Thomas M. -
He researched my problem, consulted another expert just for a second opinion, and responded to me with the answers I needed. He is a SUPER PERSON.
- Kathie -
He helped my family navigate a unique probate and trust process right at the end of the year.
- Previous Client -
Keith is one of the finest and technically proficient lawyers I have ever met.
- Jennifer -
Keith is very professional and was able to settle my family dispute.
- Susan -
Keith would be the one attorney I hope I never set on the opposite side of the table against.
- Bruce -
Mr. Morris represented me in a complicated and nasty probate matter. I am a paralegal and must say that Mr. Morris is in the top .5 of the 1% of excellent lawyers.
- Jennifer L. -
Keith was easy to reach and had a lot of knowledge about estate planning. He helped me and my family with our wills and helped set up trusts for my kids.
- Oda
Hood County Probate Lawyer
In Texas, the probate process is relatively similar to other states, but it’s still important to be mindful of a few differences. For example, in Texas, if a will is not provided or deemed official, the beneficiaries can still appoint an administrator to carry out the probate process. Whether you’re trying to navigate the obstacles of probate without a will, or wanting to dispute the content of a will, legal assistance can give you the resources needed for success. With our Hood County probate attorney, you’ll be in the right hands to take on any type of probate conflict you encounter.
For more information on how Keith Morris Attorney at Law can assist you and your family, call (713) 636-5339 or contact us online!
Five Steps to Closing an Estate Without a Will
- Appoint an Administrator
Trying to navigate an estate without an official will can be difficult. This is why it’s important to appoint an administrator who is very familiar with the deceased’s property and assets. This could be a relative, close friend, or even an offspring. The administrator will play a vital role in distributing assets to beneficiaries.
- Obtain a Copy of the Death Certificate
It will be hard to make any kind of headway legally without official documents verifying the death of a loved one. In Texas, death certificates can be obtained through Texas.gov. Typically, these documents take about one month to be mailed to the recipient.
- Hire a Probate Lawyer
It can be a tough process to navigate without professional legal assistance every step of the way. A probate lawyer will be able to give you the confidence you need to avoid any obstacles or hiccups that might arise during the probate process. This is especially true if there was no will left for the presumed beneficiaries.
- File for Probate
This will take place at the county court where the deceased party resided. Once the probate is filed the court will be in contact about a date on which the administrator is authorized to start acting on behalf of the deceased party’s estate.
- Finalize the Estate
First, the administrator will need to confirm that all of the deceased person’s debts have been paid. This includes taxes, insurance premiums, credit statements, etc. Once this has been completed, the administrator can apply for the court to order final distribution. This means that all beneficiaries will be distributed their property and assets accordingly. Once this process is finalized, the estate is officially closed.
How Is the Estate Distributed?
Transferring property after someone’s death is complicated when there’s no will present. However, in Texas, Chapter 201 of the Texas Estates Code helps map out how the order of distribution should be executed. Here is a preview of the first three beneficiaries who would receive property in the event that there is no will present:
- Any surviving spouses
- Any surviving children
- Any surviving siblings
While initially this code is easy to navigate, it can become more complicated the deeper you get into it. This is where our Hood County probate lawyer can assist. Our attorney is very up to date with Texas probate codes and can provide a personalized approach to your circumstance. Contact Keith Morris Attorney at Law for more information!

Success that Speaks for Itself
Case Results
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Dispute Resolved Estate Administration & Division of Assets
Resolved highly contentious ongoing dispute over father’s estate and division of assets between son and daughter.
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Dispute Resolved Estate Administration Case
Successfully resolved case between two siblings fighting over cash and personal property of their father.
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Hearing Won Evidentiary Hearing
Won lengthy evidentiary hearing to prove client was not in contempt of court to avoid sanction or jail time.
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Case Won Guardianship Case
Won trial to exclude wife to serve as guardian of gentleman she married that was at least twice her age.
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Six-Figure Settlement Reached Multi-Million Dollar Estate Case
Obtained six-figure settlement after jury was seated for adopted child in multi-million dollar estate case after adoption was disputed.


Why Choose Keith Morris, Attorney at Law?
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If you call Keith Morris, he will personally pick up the phone and handle your case with the attention it deserves.
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Your first free case evaluation with us can be done through video conference, phone call, or an in-person meeting.
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Keith Morris is proud to be the litigator that takes on the most complicated and difficult cases to court and getting his clients optimal results.
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With over 20 years of legal experience, Keith Morris has devoted his efforts to sharpening his skills in probate, trust, and estate planning and litigation.

Contact the firm today to discuss your case during a free consultation and explore your options.