Family Settlement Agreement

Probate Family Settlement Agreement Lawyer in El Paso, TX

When a loved one passes away, disagreements over the distribution of an estate can quickly turn into stressful legal disputes. If family members cannot agree on how assets should be divided, working with an experienced probate litigation and family settlement agreement lawyer in El Paso, TX is critical.
The Law Office of Steve Ortega, PLLC, represents families throughout El Paso in probate litigation matters and negotiates family settlement agreements. Our firm helps resolve disputes efficiently while protecting your legal rights and honoring your loved one’s wishes.

We handle probate disputes involving:
-Breach of fiduciary duty
-Will contests
-Trust disputes and trust litigation
-Undue influence or incapacity claims
-Wrongfully transferred or taken property
-Title disputes involving inherited property
-Interference with inheritance claims

Probate litigation often involves court proceedings, legal filings, and complex estate laws. Our firm works to simplify the process, reduce conflict, and pursue fair resolutions whenever possible.

What Is Probate Litigation?

Probate litigation refers to legal disputes that arise during the probate process after a person passes away. These disputes typically occur when an heir, beneficiary, or interested party believes the estate is being mishandled or that the decedent’s true intentions are not being followed.
Common reasons probate litigation arises include concerns about the validity of a will, misconduct by an executor or trustee, or disagreements between family members over asset distribution. A probate litigation lawyer can initiate legal action to protect your inheritance and enforce Texas probate laws.

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Common Probate Disputes That Lead to Family Conflict

Probate litigation can involve many different legal issues, including:
-Will Contests – Challenging the validity of a will due to lack of capacity, undue influence, or improper execution
-Guardian Disputes – Disagreements over appointing a guardian when no power of attorney exists
-Trust Disputes or Termination – Legal action when a trust’s purpose is no longer feasible
-Trustee Misconduct or Surcharge Actions – Claims involving mismanagement, self-dealing, or illegal actions by a trustee
-Fiduciary Litigation – Lawsuits against executors or fiduciaries for failing to meet their legal duties
-Creditor Claims Against an Estate – Legal disputes involving outstanding debts owed by the estate
-Inheritance Interference Claims – When assets are wrongfully withheld or diverted from rightful heirs

Factors That Increase the Risk of Probate Disputes

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Certain situations are more likely to result in probate litigation, including:
-Long-standing sibling rivalries
-Blended families or former spouses with children
-Difficult or estranged family relationships
-Lack of a prenuptial agreement
-Overly complex or poorly drafted trusts
-Leaving significant assets to non-family members
-An unqualified or ineffective trustee or executor

Trusted Probate Litigation Attorney in El Paso

If your family is facing a contentious probate dispute or needs help negotiating a family settlement agreement, the Law Office of Steve Ortega, PLLC is here to help. We understand the emotional and legal complexities involved in probate litigation and are committed to guiding you through every step of the process with clarity and confidence.
Contact our El Paso probate litigation lawyer today to discuss your case and protect your interests.