Heirs’ Property

Protect Your Home. Protect Your Family’s Future.

Heirs’ Property

Heirs’ Property issues can put families at risk of losing their homes. Our program helps homeowners in 75223, 75210, and 75227 clarify ownership and access estate planning resources.

Did you know?
we are now offering office hours for heirs’ property. click to fill out the form to reserve your date/time.

Heirs’ Property Office Hours

Office hours take place on the following dates/times at the Clinic (820 Ann Ave.). Drobinski Law: Fridays, 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Elaine Law Group: first and third Mondays, 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., but are subject to change. Do you confirm that you've read when office hours take place? Please do not suggest a time for office hours that is not listed.(Required)
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For questions, please contact us at [email protected].

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What is heirs’ property?

Heirs’ property occurs when a homeowner passes away without a will, and ownership of the home is shared by multiple family members—often across generations—without a clear title.

Why this happens: 
– No will or estate plan 
– Property passed down informally 
– Family members listed as heirs but not on the deed 

Common challenges: 
– Clouded title 
– Difficulty accessing repairs, insurance, or assistance 
– Risk of forced sale or loss of the home 

why heirs’ property matters

Without clear ownership: 
– Families may be unable to repair or improve their home 
– Property taxes, insurance, or disasters become harder to manage 
– Homes are more vulnerable to predatory sales or legal disputes 

With clear ownership: 
– Families protect generational wealth 
– Homes remain stable for future generations 
– Homeowners can qualify for repair programs and other supports 

Who This Program Helps 

Primary service area: 
– Homeowners living in ZIP codes 75210, 75223, and 75227 

This program may benefit you if: 
– You live in a family-owned home 
– The homeowner passed away without a will 
– Multiple family members may have inherited the property 
– You are unsure whose name is on the deed 
– You’ve been told your title is “clouded” or unclear 

How the Heirs’ Property Program Works 

Step 1: Intake & Review 
– We gather basic information about the home and family ownership. 

Step 2: Title & Estate Assessment 
– We help identify what documents or legal steps may be needed. 

Step 3: Referrals & Support 
– We connect families to trusted legal partners and resources. 

Step 4: Long-Term Stability 
– Clear ownership helps families protect their home and access future assistance. 

Key Terms Explained

Heirs’ Property 
– A home that is passed down after someone passes away without a will. Many family members may share ownership. 

Will 
– A paper that says who will receive your home and belongings after you pass away. 

Affidavit of Heirship 
– A paper that lists family members who may inherit a home when someone passes away without a will. 

Transfer on Death Deed (TODD) 
– A paper you sign while you are alive that names who will receive your home after you pass away. 

Probate 
– The court process that may happen after someone passes away to decide who receives their property. 

Clear Title 
– When it is clear and written down who owns the home, with no questions or disagreements. 

frequently asked questions (faq)

Do I need a lawyer to apply? 
No. You do not need a lawyer to apply. Our team will review your application first and let you know if legal help may be needed. If so, we will enroll you into the Heirs’ Property program where legal support is provided for free.  

Does applying mean I’m giving up my home? 
No. Applying does not mean you are giving up your home. The goal of this program is to help families protect their homes and make ownership clear. 

What if multiple family members disagree? 
This can happen, especially when a home has been shared by family for many years. We will help explain the situation and connect families to resources that support clear and fair solutions. We cannot force agreement, but we can help guide the next steps. 

Is this program free? 
Yes. There is no cost to enroll in this program or to work with the trusted attorneys we partner with. Typical estate planning documents—such as wills and Transfer on Death Deeds (TODDs)—are provided at no cost. 

If additional probate services are needed, we will explain that process clearly and walk alongside you every step of the way. 

What documents do I need to get started? 
To begin, we may ask for: 
– A copy of the property deed (if available) 
– A photo ID 
– Any paperwork related to the home 
– Information about family members connected to the property 

If you do not have these documents, do not worry. We can help you understand what is needed. 

Can renters or non-owners apply? 
This program is for homeowners or families living in a home that may have been passed down.  

Will my information be shared with government agencies? 
Your information is kept private and is only used to review your eligibility and connect you to services. We do not share your information without your knowledge. 

Meet the Team

Micah Benson
Housing & Workforce Manager

Erick S. Drobinski, Esq. 
Property Title and Transfer Specialist

Khanay Turner‑Osborne
Attorney

Lorraine Birabil
Attorney

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