Business Details
20 Years
experience
Dallas Probate and Estate Planning Attorneys
At the Duran Firm, we bring over two decades of specialized legal expertise to probate, guardianship, and estate planning matters. Founded by Michael Duran, a former Dallas County Probate Court clerk and nationally recognized authority in probate law, our firm has successfully handled more than 2,000 cases. Our commitment to fixed-fee structures for uncontested probate cases ensures transparency and affordability, while our deep understanding of Texas Estates Code guarantees precise, efficient service.As a trusted advisor appointed by multiple probate courts, we combine practical experience with ethical rigor to protect clients' interests. Our goal-driven estate planning approach empowers families to create legacies that extend beyond financial inheritance. With offices in Dallas and serving 23 North Texas counties, we provide personalized legal solutions grounded in decades of courtroom experience and community leadership.
Services
Probate with Will
Probate without Will
Guardianship
Estate Planning
Living Wills
Powers of Attorney
Special Needs Trusts
Contested Probate
Willing Good Planning
Guardianship for Seniors
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Over 2,000 probate and guardianship cases successfully completed
- Former Dallas County Probate Court clerk with insider expertise
- Transparent fixed-fee pricing for uncontested probate matters
- Appointed by Dallas Probate Courts for complex estate administrations
- Goal-driven estate planning focused on family legacy protection
Services
Probate with Will
Our firm specializes in uncontested probate cases where a valid will exists. We handle all necessary court filings, executor guidance, and estate administration. Our fixed-fee structure ensures cost predictability while meeting Texas Estates Code requirements for self-proved wills and independent administration.
Guardianship
We assist families in establishing guardianships for seniors with dementia or individuals with special needs. Our process includes medical documentation review, court application preparation, and navigating bond requirements. We guide clients through both uncontested and contested guardianship proceedings.
Estate Planning
Our goal-driven estate planning creates comprehensive solutions including wills, trusts, and advance directives. We offer streamlined online worksheet submission and virtual consultations to create tailored plans that protect assets and family interests across generations.
Special Needs Trusts
We design supplemental needs trusts that preserve Medicaid and SSI eligibility while protecting assets for individuals with disabilities. Our expertise covers both third-party and self-funded trust structures, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
Living Wills
Our living will services ensure clients' medical wishes are honored through legally binding directives. We provide comprehensive documentation that guides healthcare decisions during terminal conditions or irreversible medical states.
People
Michael A. Duran
Attorney
With over 20 years of probate law experience, Michael Duran founded the Duran Firm after serving as a Dallas County Probate Court clerk. He has handled 2,000+ cases and been appointed by Dallas Probate Courts for complex estate administrations. A former Probate Section Council Chair, he combines courtroom expertise with practical legal solutions.
Questions
What documents are needed for probate with a will?
We require the original self-proved will, death certificate, and completed client information worksheet to initiate probate proceedings.
How long does guardianship establishment take?
Uncontested guardianship cases typically complete within 60-90 days after filing required documentation with the court.
Do you offer virtual estate planning consultations?
Yes, we provide virtual consultations and online document submission for convenient estate planning services.
What makes your probate fees different?
We offer transparent fixed-fee structures for uncontested probate cases instead of traditional hourly billing.
Can special needs trusts protect government benefits?
Properly structured supplemental needs trusts preserve Medicaid and SSI eligibility while protecting assets.
Which counties do you serve?
We serve Dallas, Collin, Tarrant, Denton and 19 other North Texas counties for probate matters.
Videos
