Probate Attorney
Probate Guidance for Executors and Families in McKinney
You Don't Have to Face
Probate Alone
Losing a loved one is hard enough. Managing the legal requirements shouldn’t make it worse. The process can feel like a maze of deadlines, filings, and “legalese.” At Texas Legacy Planning, Scott Christiansen uses his nearly 30 years of experience to serve as your project manager through the legal system.
We don’t believe in over-complicating an already difficult time. Whether there is a Will or not, Scott applies his engineering background to identify the most direct path through the probate process. Our goal is to handle the heavy legal lifting so you can focus on your family, ensuring the estate is settled correctly, cost-effectively, and with complete transparency.
Managing the Estate With Care
We provide a clear structure to ensure every legal requirement is met without unnecessary delays.
Probate Administration
We guide Executors through the court process, from filing the Will to the final distribution of assets, ensuring compliance with all Texas statutes.
Trust Administration
If your loved one left a Trust, we help Successor Trustees understand their fiduciary duties, manage assets, and distribute funds to beneficiaries privately.
Small Estate Affidavits
Not every estate needs a full court proceeding. We identify cost-effective shortcuts for smaller estates to save your family time and money.
Answering Commonly Asked Probate Questions
How long does the probate process take in Collin County?
For a pretty “A to B”, uncontested estate, probate can take anywhere from 3 months to 6 months or a year. It largely depends on if you have a good probate attorney on your side.
What is the difference between "Independent" and "Dependent" administration?
Texas is famous for its Independent Administration process. If a Will specifically requests it, the Executor can handle the estate’s business with very little court supervision, which saves significant time and money. Dependent Administration is the opposite; the court must approve almost every action (like selling a car or paying a bill), which is usually more expensive and slower.
Can I avoid probate if the estate is very small?
Yes. If the total value of the estate (excluding the primary home) is less than $75,000 and there is no Will, we may be able to file a Small Estate Affidavit. This is a much faster and more affordable way to transfer assets without a full-blown probate trial.
What are "Letters Testamentary" and why do I need them?
It’s an official document issued by the Collin County Clerk after a hearing that proves you have the legal authority to act on behalf of the estate. You’ll need these documents to close bank accounts, sell real estate, or transfer vehicle titles.
Can I represent myself in the McKinney probate court?
Self-representation is highly discouraged and often not allowed by the court. Because an Executor represents the interests of others (beneficiaries and creditors), Texas law generally requires you to be represented by a licensed attorney. Judge Duff’s court strictly enforces this to ensure the estate is handled in accordance with the Texas Estates Code.
How long do I have to file a Will for probate?
In Texas, you generally have four years from the date of the person’s death to file a Will for probate. If you miss this deadline, the Will may be considered invalid, and the estate will be distributed according to Texas “intestacy” laws—as if the person died without a Will at all.
What is "Muniment of Title"?
This is a unique, “probate-lite” option in Texas. If the deceased had a valid Will, no unpaid debts (other than a home mortgage), and the only goal is to transfer title to real estate, you can use Muniment of Title. It’s faster and cheaper because it skips the appointment of an executor and the formal administration of the estate.
30 Years of Law Experience
Scott Christiansen founded this practice to provide the steady, empathetic counsel families need during life’s most “emotionally charged” moments. He approaches probate as a problem to be solved with logic and care, not as a miserable legal hurdle. With his deep roots in McKinney and small-town Montana values, Scott ensures every client feels heard, respected, and supported throughout the entire process.
Let Us Handle the Paperwork, You Handle the Family
You don’t have to face the probate court alone. Let’s build a clear plan to settle your loved one’s affairs with dignity and efficiency.