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When Distributions Aren’t Made According to the Will

This is a Case Study analysis on the facts of Patrick v. Patrick, 182 S.W.3d 433 (Tex. App. – Austin 2005, no pet.), as if it were to be decided today. It is not an analysis of the court’s holding in this case.

Introduction

Probate law governs the distribution of a deceased person’s assets. In Texas, probate is the legal process by which a court oversees the distribution of a deceased person’s estate. The purpose of the probate process is to ensure that the deceased person’s debts are paid and that their assets are distributed to the proper beneficiaries. This case study will examine the Estate of Mrs. Holland and the distribution of her assets according to the instructions provided in her will.

Facts & Procedural History

Mrs. Holland passed away in 1999, and her will was admitted to probate shortly afterwards. The probate court appointed her son, Christopher Holland, as the independent executor. The will instructed for half of her probate estate to be given to her son, with the remainder to be given to her daughter, Ms. Patrick, and her four children (Decedent’s grandchildren). Decedent’s will also stated that her IRAs were to be divided equally between her children.

Texas Probate Law

In Texas, the independent executor has a fiduciary duty to distribute the assets of the estate according to the instructions provided in the will. This means that the executor must act in good faith and with the utmost care, loyalty, and impartiality when administering the estate. The executor’s duty includes making a full and fair accounting of the estate’s assets and debts, paying the debts and expenses of the estate, and distributing the assets to the beneficiaries named in the will.

Analysis

The will of Mrs. Holland clearly stated that half of her probate estate was to be given to her son, with the remainder to be given to her daughter and her four grandchildren. It also stated that her IRAs were to be divided equally between her children. If the distributions made by Christopher Holland, the independent executor, were not in compliance with these instructions, then he may have breached his fiduciary duty as the executor.

Potential Remedies for Non-Compliance

If the daughter and her children believe that the distributions were not made in accordance with the will, they may file a lawsuit against the executor to contest the distributions. The purpose of the lawsuit would be to have the distributions set aside and the estate distributed according to the instructions provided in the will. The lawsuit may also seek compensation for any damages suffered as a result of the executor’s breach of fiduciary duty.

The Takeaway

Probate law is an essential component of estate planning, as it ensures that a deceased person’s assets are distributed according to their wishes. In Texas, the independent executor has a fiduciary duty to distribute the assets of the estate in accordance with the instructions provided in the will. If the distributions made by the executor are not in compliance with the will, then the beneficiaries may file a lawsuit to contest the distributions and seek compensation for any damages suffered as a result of the executor’s breach of fiduciary duty.

Our Dallas Probate Attorneys provide a full range of probate services to our clients, including helping with asset distribution. Probate is what we do. Affordable rates, fixed fees, and payment plans are available. We provide step-by-step instructions, guidance, checklists, and more for completing the probate process.We have years of combined experience we can use to support and guide you with probate and estate matters. Call us today for a FREE attorney consultation.

Disclaimer: The content of this website is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information presented may not apply to your situation and should not be acted upon without consulting a qualified probate attorney. We encourage you to seek the advice of a competent attorney with any legal questions you may have.

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