Estate Planning, Probate & Trust Administration
Clarity in Times That Matter Most
Estate planning is a favorite area of law for our team. It is such a pleasure to put clients' minds at ease, helping them plan for their future while also securing their present needs. And when a family loses a loved one, The Lefler Law Firm assists families with the probate of wills or with the administrative steps to carry out the terms of the loved one's trust.
If you have an estate planning need, keep in mind that people are living longer than ever before. In many ways, it is just as important to plan for a long life as it is to plan for death. For some clients, this means planning for infirmity; discussing long term health care needs; carefully considering the person or persons who will be there to assist when and if those difficult days arise.
And regardless of longevity, for most clients estate planning means more than just a simple will.
What We Can Do for You & Your Family
Estate Planning Services
A good estate plan does more than distribute property—it reflects your values, supports your family, and provides direction during times of uncertainty. We help clients at every stage of life:
- Drafting Wills and Creating Trusts
- Naming Guardians for Minor Children or Elderly Parents
- Preparing Medical and Financial Powers of Attorney
- Revising Plans After Major Life Changes (e.g., remarriage, relocation, loss)
Probate Court Representation
After a loved one passes, the legal process of transferring assets can feel like a maze. We provide clear, reliable help for those navigating:
- Probate of Wills
- Independent and Dependent Administrations
- Small Estate Affidavits and Heirship Determinations
- Creditor Claims and Beneficiary Disputes
- Out-of-State or Remote Probate Filings
Trust Administration
Trust administration is often a private, less court-involved process—but it can still be complex. We help trustees meet their responsibilities and families understand their rights:
- Guiding Successor Trustees Through Their Duties
- Managing Asset Distributions and Legal Notices
- Addressing Beneficiary Questions or Concerns
- Working with Tax and Financial Professionals
- Providing Ongoing Legal Support During Administration
Fiduciary Services
In some cases, clients prefer that we serve as their Executor, Trustee, or Agent. When families need a neutral fiduciary—due to distance, privacy concerns, or complexity—we’re ready to step in and serve with integrity.
Your questions, answered with clarity and care.
What does an estate planning attorney do?
An estate planning attorney helps you organize your affairs so that your wishes are clearly documented and legally sound. This includes drafting wills, creating trusts, designating guardians, preparing powers of attorney, and helping you plan for health care decisions or long-term needs. We guide you through each step and explain your options in plain language.
Do I need a trust if I already have a will?
A will is a good starting point, but a trust can help avoid probate court, maintain privacy, and simplify asset transfers—especially for larger or more complex estates. Trusts can also provide ongoing support for loved ones, including minors or individuals with disabilities. We’ll help you understand when and why a trust might make sense for your situation.
How long does the probate process take in Texas or California?
Probate timelines vary depending on the complexity of the estate and whether there are any disputes. In straightforward cases, it may take several months. More complex or contested matters can take longer. We handle filings, deadlines, and communications with the court to keep the process moving efficiently and with minimal stress to you.
What happens if someone passes away without a will?
If a person dies without a valid will (called “intestate”), the state determines how their assets are distributed—usually to closest relatives in a set order. We can help surviving family members navigate this process, file necessary documents, and represent your interests in court if needed.
What kind of clients do you represent?
We represent clients of all ages and stages of health and wealth. Some clients have been married 50+ years, have 2.3 children, and are simply preparing or updating their estate plan to carry out their wishes. Other clients have remarried (sometimes for a second or third time) and have children from a prior marriage. More than a few clients ask us to assist them with prenuptial agreements. Other clients are single, sometimes newly widowed or divorced, and need their estate plan to reflect the new chapter in their lives.
