FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a DWI arrest in Angleton?
Contact an attorney as soon as possible — Texas moves quickly to suspend your license through the Administrative License Revocation process, separate from the criminal case itself. Requesting an ALR hearing promptly is one of the first and most time-sensitive steps.
Will a misdemeanor conviction show up on my record?
Yes. Misdemeanor convictions become part of your permanent criminal record in Texas and can affect employment and housing applications, which is why it's worth defending even a "minor" charge.
Where are criminal cases in Brazoria County heard?
Misdemeanor cases are heard in the Brazoria County Courts at Law; felony cases proceed through the Brazoria County District Court. Both are located in Angleton, the county seat.
Does every estate have to go through probate in Texas?
No. Depending on how the deceased held their assets and whether they had a valid will, some estates can avoid full probate — for example, through a process called muniment of title when there's a valid will and no debts other than those secured by real estate.
How long does probate take in Brazoria County?
It varies. A straightforward estate with a valid will and no disputes can sometimes resolve in a few months; larger or contested estates can take a year or more.
What happens if a loved one dies without a will in Texas?
Their estate is distributed according to Texas intestacy law, and the probate court typically appoints an administrator — often a close family member — to manage the process, which usually involves more court supervision than administration under a will.
What is independent administration?
It's a streamlined form of estate administration, available in most Texas cases, that requires significantly less court supervision and paperwork than the "dependent administration" process used in many other states — making probate faster and less expensive for the family.