Probate Litigation

Houston Probate Litigation Attorneys

We Handle High-Stakes Probate & Estate Litigation

Our Houston-based probate litigation attorneys protect and defend the interests of heirs and beneficiaries in estate disputes or cases of inheritance theft. We have over 100 years of collective legal experience, and we use it to help you protect what matters most.


For competent and compassionate representation during this difficult time, please call us at (713) 909-7323.


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What Kinds of Probate Cases Does Hendershot Cowart P.C. Handle?

Hendershot Cowart P.C. seeks to turn stress and uncertainty into resolution. We focus on estate litigation, which is different from drafting estate planning documents and requires a unique set of skills.

We handle a wide range of probate litigation matters, including:

  • Contesting the validity of a will
  • Removing an executor or trustee who is not doing their job
  • Investigating and putting a stop to inheritance theft
  • Demanding an accounting of the estate’s assets
  • Contesting appraisals of an estate or trust property
  • Disputes over creditors’ claims to an estate
  • Recovering money or assets embezzled from a trust
  • Recovering stolen estate assets
  • Defending an executor or trustee against breach of fiduciary duty claims
  • Resolving disputes over the inherited ownership of a family business

Sometimes, it may be necessary to remove an executor, trustee, or trust administrator for dragging their feet, enriching themselves, misappropriating estate assets, or other misconduct. Other times, creditors make false claims, properties are worth more than appraisers say, or family members feel slighted by a last will and testament.

Whether loved ones disagree on a decedent’s final wishes, or someone tries to take advantage of a vulnerable situation, our Houston probate litigation lawyers are here to help.

What Does a Probate Litigation Attorney Do?

Most estate planning attorneys do not go to court or engage in litigation. We do. As a probate litigation law firm, Hendershot Cowart P.C. gears its practice toward contested estates. Instead of drafting wills and setting up trusts, we represent clients in disputes that may lead to hearings and trials, and we prepare cases designed for court.

Probate litigation attorneys are familiar with wills, trusts, and estate planning matters, but their primary focus is contesting wills, handling trust disputes, and holding bad actors accountable for inheritance theft and trust embezzlement. They can also defend those falsely accused of wrongdoing or not performing their legal duties.

If you are involved in an estate or trust dispute, you need a probate litigation attorney – not an estate planning lawyer.

Our team is familiar with probate courts in Houston and throughout Texas, and we have the skills you need to find a favorable resolution.

When Should I Hire a Probate Litigation Attorney?

As soon as you suspect that something may be amiss with your loved one’s estate or family trust, contact a probate litigator. Speaking to an experienced attorney does not necessarily mean you will end up in litigation. It does, however, mean that you will be apprised of your rights and be prepared to collect evidence and take the next steps should your suspicions prove accurate, or the matter remains unresolved.

Retaining a litigation attorney means that you have a probate attorney on your side, protecting your rights.

Choose a probate litigation attorney familiar with the court system in the county where the estate or trust is located since each county in Texas has its own process and preferences for handling probate matters. More populated counties, such as Harris and Galveston Counties, contain statutory probate courts which exclusively handle probate matters. In other counties, probate matters may be handled by the county or district court.

The probate litigation attorneys at Hendershot Cowart P.C. handle cases throughout Texas, especially in Galveston, Harris, Fort Bend, and Montgomery Counties, covering greater Houston communities such as Sugar Land, The Woodlands, West University, Bellaire, the Heights, Galveston, Clear Lake, Pearland, and Kingwood.

How Much Does a Probate Litigation Lawyer Cost?

The services of our probate litigation attorneys are provided on an hourly basis. The number of service hours will depend on the complexity of your case. Some matters can be resolved in a matter of days or weeks, and some matters can take much longer.


Call (713) 909-7323 or schedule an initial consultation by filling out our brief contact form . Then, discuss the implications of a will contest – both financially and emotionally – with your family before making a decision.


We are ready to protect your best interests should you decide hiring a probate litigation attorney is the right option for you and your family.

Retain an Experienced Probate Litigation Attorney in Houston Today

Hendershot Cowart P.C. does not prepare wills and trusts. Instead, we dedicate our firm’s experience and resources to litigating and resolving estate and trust disputes, as well as will contests.

At our firm, we value relationships and believe in strong communication. When you choose us, you will know what is going on in your case – from start to finish. Each probate litigation attorney at our firm values going above and beyond for their clients. We have a strong record of results and strive to exceed your expectations.


No matter how difficult your case is – or how complex the family dynamics are – please call us at (713) 909-7323 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.


Additional Reading

Why Choose Our Team? Unwavering Commitment to the Success of our Clients
  • We Shoulder the Legal Burden.™
    And let you get back to business.
  • We Want to Be Your Law Firm for Life.
    We take a vested interest in our clients' success – from start to finish.
  • We Believe in Prompt, Personal Attention.
    As a boutique law firm, we unite real experience with personal attention.
  • We Serve Clients Throughout Texas and the Nation.
    We handle matters from the Red River to the Rio Grande and beyond.
  • In Business Since 1987.
    Let us put the full force of our 100+ years of combined experience to work for you.

What Our Clients Say

  • “I cannot say enough good things about my Lawyer, Mr. David Augustus. His calm, laser-like knowledge of business law allowed me to prevail and teach a few others during the short negotiations. Having the full backing of his law firm also helped greatly.” - L.A.
  • “Excellent experience working with Ray to settle our partnership dissolution. He was consistently available and steadfast in his guidance. Highly recommend this firm.” - S.H.
  • “I retained Hendershot Cowart last year. Though an obvious small case for the firm, it was traumatic and very personal for me. Ashley Arnett guided me through the process, never once making me feel that my case wasn’t any less important as any other.” - S.L.

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