Plano, TX asked in Real Estate Law, Estate Planning and Probate for Texas

Q: My estranged brother sent me a text giving me 5 business days to send him a copy of my mother's will in which she has

named me executor and sole beneficiary. I understand I do not have to show him this will until I have been appointed by the court, however, should I respond to his text? Would a response show that I am agreeing to text communication with him?

2 Lawyer Answers

A: Your question does not state whether or not, anyone has filed to Probate, your mother's Will.

If he has filed it, you better get busy and submit a filing of your own. You should not wait.

You are correct, if you are named as Executor, you have control. But you must file soon. Time goes by fast in the legal world.

Texas has particular rules of service. Once you file the Will to be probated, you will be required to send notice to all of your siblings, and anyone mentioned in the Will.

Being an Executor is an important obligation. Please be diligent in your management of the same.

You should get an attorney involved before you contact anyone regarding the Estate business.

I hope this helps.

Good Luck

A: Why not just send him a copy of the will?

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