Estate, Fiduciary, and Probate Litigation
Serving Clients & Their Families Throughout Texas
Will and Trust Content Legal Guidance
The vast majority of probate cases and guardianship cases are uncontested. However, conflicts can and do arise. When that happens, having knowledgeable, competent, and aggressive representation makes all the difference. At Barnes Lipscomb & Stewart, our lawyers have represented clients in all types of contested administrations, trusts, probate and guardianship in the greater Austin area. When you need advocacy in a Texas probate dispute, we’re here to help. We represent both beneficiaries and heirs seeking a remedy as well as trustees and executors who are defending their actions.
Contested Matters in Texas
Contested matters include:
- Will contests
- Suits by or against executors or trustees for breach of fiduciary duty
- Suits to remove an executor or trustee
- Suits to interpret a will or trust
- Disputes over the need for guardianship of an incapacitated person
- Who should serve as guardian
These are some of the most common types of contested matters in this area of the law This list is by no means exhaustive. There are several other kinds of contests, and we have experience in almost all of them.
Estate Litigation
Estate litigation often arises after a loved one’s passing. When disputes regarding the estate emerge, clients are faced with a slow, expensive legal battle. In this challenging situation, a skilled team that understands probate law and contested estates makes all the difference.
At Barnes Lipscomb & Stewart, we understand the unique challenges of contested estate matters. When managing these complex disputes, your clarity, peace of mind, and closure are our priorities.
Fiduciary Litigation
Disputes involving fiduciary duties center on action or inaction of a fiduciary. Specifically concerns of mismanagement, negligence, or breach of trust are often signs of a breach of a duty by a fiduciary. Whether involving an executor or trustee, these conflicts require a comprehensive understanding of probate procedures and civil litigation.
At Barnes Lipscomb & Stewart, we take fiduciary responsibilities seriously and provide assertive representation for clients pursuing justice in cases of fiduciary misconduct. By prioritizing transparency, communication, and swift action, we help clients resolve fiduciary disputes efficiently, bringing relief and resolution when trust is in question.
Contested Wills
Will contests can create lasting divisions within families at a time when they are most vulnerable. Suppose you suspect a will is not valid, or does not reflect a loved one’s true intentions or has been influenced improperly. In that case, our team can provide the experienced legal support needed to investigate and advocate on your behalf. Barnes Lipscomb & Stewart handles contests with compassion and tenacity, working diligently to protect rightful inheritances while helping clients find the necessary closure.
Finding the Right Legal Representation for Contested Matters in Austin
Finding proper legal representation can be difficult when executors, beneficiaries, and guardianship applicants become involved in a dispute over an estate or the course of guardianship. Many estate planning attorneys do not become involved with contested matters, and many civil litigators are unfamiliar with probate practice and procedures. Our attorneys prioritize this area of the law and are equipped to deal with most contested matters. To discuss your contested matter with one of our litigation attorneys, please request a consultation with our office.