Dear Ms. Young:
I suggest that you get a paper back copy of the "Texas
Probate Code" and the "Texas Family Code" from your local
law school or law book store. Many of your aforementioned
questions both with regard to procedure and law will
probably be answered in the same. They should cost less than
$25 each.
I hope that this helps as little.
I am not an attorney. I recommend that you contact an
attorney with regard to this matter.
Sincerely,
Mr. C.V. Compton Shaw, R.N., CLA
Susan Young wrote:
I have received letters testamentary as executrix of my fiance's
estate. He willed his four vehicles (non-working) and home and
personal property to me. The only other items were $1.00 to five
relatives. When would I need to open a checking account for the
"Estate of ..."?
Since each of the vehicles would cost @$50.00 to transfer title to me,
is there a way to sell them outright without transferring title?
Can I sell any items before the Inventory & Appraisement is complete
and approved? Could you tell me what the purpose is of the Inventory
and Appraisement? My attorney waived the appraiser (no, I don't know
why), and I don't know how to appraise the home, vehicles and personal
property. Does anyone know how I should value the items?
Also, regarding the I&A, the attorney told me I would only have to
publish a "Notice to Creditors" and wait 4 months for them to come
forward, and be approved for payment by the court. However, the I&A
he sent me asked for creditors' names that I know of. But I don't
know if these creditors are legitimate. Do I list them anyway or just
publish the notice or both?
I may want to spend money to improve the property. Should that
estimate be listed as a "creditor"?
I have received more than one answer to the question of possibly
selling the home. I don't know what documents I need, or if I need to
transfer the title to me or to someone who would purchase it directly
from the estate. Would I need to get certified copies of legal
documents to transfer title if I keep the property? Do I now have the
authority to pay the taxes due on the home?
Relatives (the ones left $1.00)raided the home after his death for
items totaling @$3000. Can I take them to small claims court for their
return or the money value of the items? Can I do that now, or must I
wait until other matters are handled through the court?
I know this is long, and I apoligize. My attorney is out of town, and
I have no one to ask these questions unless I retain another attorney.
Thanks so much for any assistance you can give me.
S. Young
