Atascosa County Judge’s Report




 

 

The primary county probate court is one of my courts. It probates wills and intestate matters. It also handles guardianship matters.

I am writing this because I see too many people come through my court intestate (no will). When a loved one dies intestate (without a will) they put a larger burden on their family than they should because processing is more expensive and very complicated.

You need a will. If you own anything (auto, etc.) and/or have a bank account, you need a will. If you have children, you really need a will. None of us likes to think about sitting down and making a will, but unfortunately, none of us are guaranteed a tomorrow. When you make a will, you help ensure your belongings wind up with whom you wish. A last will and testament can also make sure other final wishes are carried out, such as guardianship for your children, funeral wishes, burial or cremation instructions and more.

There are several good local attorneys in Atascosa County that can help you with it. There are many online programs, some better than others, that you can “do it yourself” with. I see people every month who are caused more difficulties because a loved one did not do a will.

The will must be comprised of many elements to go through in the simplest way through court. You CAN write a will on an envelope (I have probated one), but it is much more difficult. It is much better to have one that checks all of the boxes to be complete.

And the estate must be probated, with or without a will. When a loved one dies you may NOT take the assets until probate is complete. Even if you are named in a will as the desired executor you are not the executor until the probate court says so.

You need a will. You may call me anytime if you need information about this subject.

Quote of the week, “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”– Babe Ruth.

Thanks for listening.

We want you to be proud of your County Government.

BOB HURLEY is the Atascosa County Judge. You may email him at countyjudge@ atascosacounty.texas.gov.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *