Caton Law Firm - McKinney, TX

Dedicated Estate Planning and Probate Law in McKinney, Texas

Planning for the future and safeguarding your family wealth requires trusted legal counsel with a deep understanding of Texas probate codes and property statutes. Located just south of the historic square in McKinney, Caton Law Firm provides attentive legal services focused on wills, trusts, probate administration, and corporate organization. Whether you need to hire an attorney to establish an enduring family trust or require immediate probate guidance after the loss of a loved one, the firm crafts customized legal solutions tailored to each client unique objectives.

Comprehensive Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning

A well-structured estate plan gives you control over asset distribution while shielding your heirs from unnecessary delays and taxation. As an experienced estate planning lawyer team, the firm works closely with individuals and families to build legally sound frameworks. Core estate planning solutions include:

• Drafting customized last wills and testaments to designate beneficiaries and name trusted executors.
• Establishing revocable living trusts and irrevocable trusts to bypass statutory probate proceedings.
• Creating bypass trusts, marital trusts, and generation-skipping trusts to minimize federal transfer taxes.
• Drafting statutory durable powers of attorney and medical powers of attorney for incapacity protection.
• Preparing living wills and advance healthcare directives to document end-of-life medical preferences.

Texas Probate and Estate Administration

Administering an estate after the passing of a family member involves strict court deadlines, asset appraisals, and creditor notifications. Caton Law Firm provides compassionate legal support to executors, administrators, and beneficiaries throughout the Collin County probate court system. Key probate services include:

• Independent and dependent estate administration filings in Texas probate courts.
• Muniment of title proceedings for simplified transfer of real estate when no unpaid debts exist.
• Small estate affidavits and heirship proceedings when an individual passes away intestate.
• Handling creditor claims, inventory appraisals, and final fiduciary asset distribution.

Business Entity Formation and Succession Planning

Entrepreneurs and closely held company owners frequently require integrated legal support that connects business operations with personal wealth preservation. The firm guides business founders through entity selection, structural governance, and ownership transitions. Key services include:

• Formation of limited liability companies, corporations, and series limited liability companies.
• Structuring family limited partnerships to protect shared family assets and real estate investments.
• Drafting operating agreements, corporate bylaws, and partnership contracts.
• Creating business succession plans to facilitate seamless ownership transfers across generations.

Multigenerational Legal Experience Built on Trust

Established in 1985 as Caton and Cathey, Caton Law Firm represents three generations of female attorneys dedicated to Collin County residents. Karen C. Caton was the first attorney in Collin County to achieve Board Certification in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and earned an AV Preeminent peer-review rating from Martindale-Hubbell. Working alongside attorney Cate Carter, the firm maintains an enduring tradition of practical, cost-effective, and attentive legal service. When you need to find an attorney who truly listens to your concerns and protects your legacy, Caton Law Firm offers the proven background and local knowledge necessary to achieve peace of mind.