A Texas proceeding that may establish a decedent’s legal heirs and their interests when a valid will does not control succession.
Why heirship matters
When someone dies intestate, Texas inheritance rules determine who succeeds to probate property. A formal heirship judgment may be useful for establishing title and inheritance rights.
What the court evaluates
Family history, marriage, children, relevant testimony, and other evidence may be considered. Interested parties and potential heirs can affect the process.
Heirship and estate administration
A determination of heirship and an estate administration serve different functions. In some cases they are combined; in others administration may not be necessary.