FAQ: What Is an Administrator of an Estate in Texas?
Quick Answer: An administrator of an estate is the person appointed by the Probate Court to handle the affairs of someone who dies without a Last Will and Testament. In Texas, this appointment is made under the Texas Estates Code, and the administrator is legally responsible for managing the estate’s assets, debts, and distributions.
At The Ashmore Law Firm, we help families navigate the probate process and guide administrators through their legal responsibilities under Texas law.
What Does an Administrator of an Estate Do?
An administrator’s job is to manage and settle the estate of a deceased person who did not leave a will (this is known as dying intestate). Their duties include:
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Collecting and identifying assets owned by the deceased
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Paying valid debts, taxes, and expenses of the estate
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Distributing remaining assets to heirs according to Texas intestate succession laws
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Filing necessary paperwork with the Probate Court and other agencies
Because there is no will to provide direction, administrators must strictly follow Texas law when dividing the estate.
The Administrator’s Fiduciary Duty
An administrator has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the estate and its beneficiaries. This means they must:
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Handle assets responsibly and transparently
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Avoid any conflicts of interest
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Keep accurate records of all transactions
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Always put the estate’s and heirs’ interests above their own
Failing to meet these responsibilities can result in legal consequences or personal liability. That’s why working with an experienced probate attorney is crucial to ensure compliance with court rules and state laws.
Who Can Serve as an Administrator?
In most cases, the court will appoint a close relative of the deceased, such as:
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A surviving spouse
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An adult child
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A parent or sibling
If there are disputes among potential heirs or no family members are available, the court may appoint a neutral third party or attorney to serve as administrator.
How The Ashmore Law Firm Can Help
When you work with The Ashmore Law Firm, our probate attorneys will:
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Guide you through the Texas probate process step by step
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Help you file for letters of administration
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Advise you on your fiduciary duties and reporting requirements
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Protect you from personal liability and help prevent family disputes
Whether you’ve been appointed as an administrator or need to petition the court, we’ll ensure the process is handled efficiently and correctly.
Speak With an Experienced Probate Lawyer in Dallas
If you have questions about serving as an administrator or need help managing an estate without a will, contact The Ashmore Law Firm today.
📞 Call us at 214.559.7202 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
We proudly assist clients throughout the Dallas area with probate and estate administration matters.
