Duffley Law
Protect Your Family. Avoid Probate. Secure Your Legacy.
We help families use trust-based estate plans to avoid probate court and ensure their wishes are carried out smoothly.
I’d like to protect my estate and claim my free plan vision meeting:
What is Probate? And Why Would I Want to Avoid It?
Probate is the public court process of getting something out of a person’s name after he or she passes away.
In Texas, it typically costs thousands (if not tens of thousands) of dollars in court costs and legal fees, and takes months (if not years) of time.
If someone doesn’t have an effective estate plan, probate may be required to access that person’s assets. That means your loved ones may be stuck in court for months (or worse) just to try and get access to things after you pass away.
When used properly, trusts are an effective way to avoid probate.
What Is Trust-Based Estate Planning?
A trust is like a bucket. We move assets into that bucket. With an effective trust, anything that’s in that bucket when you pass away avoids probate so that those assets can be transferred as smoothly as possible. No courts. No judges.
Why We Love Trusts
Avoids Probate
Assets held in your trust pass directly to your loved ones without the need for an expensive, public court process.
Saves Time & Money
Your family avoids months (or years) of court involvement, legal fees, and administrative costs.Keeps Your Affairs Private
Unlike probate, a trust can keep your estate details out of the public court system and away from unnecessary scrutiny.Plans for Incapacity
Includes powers of attorney and health directives so trusted people can act for you without court intervention.Protects Your Home & Assets
Your home, accounts, personal items, and investments can be properly titled to ensure they transfer smoothly.Flexible & Updateable
Most trusts are “revocable,” meaning you can change or amend things in the future. So your plan remains flexible.
We’ll start with a conversation with you to learn more about your personal goals and situation. From there, we can design a plan tailored to those goals.
Some Posts We've Written
What is probate?
Probate is the court process of getting something out of someone’s name after he or she passes away. It’s often slow, costly, and public.
Does a will avoid probate?
Unlike an effective trust, a will by itself does not avoid probate.
Is probate always required in Texas?
Not always, but many estates still end up in probate due to how assets are titled. An effective trust-based estate plan is one of the most reliable ways to avoid probate entirely.
Is a trust only for super wealthy people?
No. Trust-based estate planning is common for everyday families, especially homeowners, who want to protect their assets and make things easier for loved ones.
How long does it take to create a trust-based estate plan?
The process is usually straightforward and can often be completed within a few weeks, depending on your specific goals and assets.