The Houston Texas Order Admitting Will to Probate is a legal document that signifies the court's approval of a Last Will and Testament in the state of Texas. This order is obtained by the executor or personal representative of the deceased person's estate. The Last Will and Testament is a legally binding document created by an individual, also known as the testator, to dictate how their assets and affairs should be handled upon their death. It outlines the testator's wishes regarding the distribution of their property, the appointment of an executor to oversee the estate, and guardianship for any minor children or dependents. In Houston, Texas, there are different types of Orders Admitting Will to Probate and Last Will and Testament based on specific circumstances. These variations may include: 1. Regular Probate: This type of order and will apply when there is a valid will and the estate's assets need to be administered according to the provisions outlined in the will. 2. Small Estate Affidavit: In cases where the estate's value is below a certain threshold, typically $75,000, Texas allows for a simplified probate process called a Small Estate Affidavit. This document allows the executor to bypass the regular probate process. 3. Independent Administration: Texas law also allows for an Independent Administration, which can be specified within the Last Will and Testament or granted later by the court. With this type of order, the executor is given broader authority to handle the estate's affairs independently, with limited court supervision. 4. Monument of Title: In some situations where there is no need for executor appointment or administration of assets, a Monument of Title may be used. This process involves seeking a court order that the will is valid. It mainly pertains to cases where the estate consists solely of real property and there are no outstanding debts. In summary, the Houston Texas Order Admitting Will to Probate is a court-issued document that validates a Last Will and Testament, allowing it to be executed according to the deceased's wishes. The variations in types of orders and wills reflect the complexity and unique circumstances that may surround each individual case.