| HOUSTON, TX — Harris County has launched the new Office of the Public Probate Administrator to assist residents who lack the resources or family support to manage their estates. This office will help residents who can no longer manage their finances or who pass away without a will, ensuring their assets are protected from fraud and transferred to rightful heirs. Led by Public Probate Administrator Brandon Cofield, this office will serve as a critical safety net for Harris County residents, especially those facing illness, injury, or aging, as well as those without next of kin or legal representation. The office has the authority to act as a universal heir when necessary, determining whether an individual has heirs, a will, or a trust. The goal is to prevent fraud, misappropriation, or abuse by third parties, while also protecting residents from financial exploitation. “My goal is to ensure that no person loses or receives a lesser inheritance because of a lack of resources or guidance,” said Administrator Cofield. “For too long, the assets of those who pass away in Harris County have not been transferred to lawful beneficiaries because of inaction or lack of knowledge. My office will work to close the information gap and protect vulnerable populations.” Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee highlighted the far-reaching impact of this initiative. “This office will fundamentally change the way we protect vulnerable residents in Harris County. For too long, people without resources or legal support have fallen through the cracks, leaving their estates open to fraud or exploitation. This is about ensuring that every resident—no matter their circumstances— is treated with dignity and fairness. We’re not just creating a new office; we’re closing a longstanding gap in our community’s safety net.” The Harris County Attorney’s Office will partner with the Public Probate Administrator to answer questions and provide support to residents every Wednesday at 1:30 PM at the Harris County Robert W. Hainsworth Law Library, 1019 Congress St., Houston, Texas 77010. The office was established by vote of the Harris County Commissioners Court in accordance with Texas Estates Code Chapter 455. For more information about the Office of the Public Probate Administrator, click here. |