What We Do
Saunders Schmidt & Echols provides an extensive range of legal services. Everything from Estate Planning, Probates, Bankruptcy, Business Formation, and Civil Suits.
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ESTATE PLANNING
We offer a well-rounded estate planning practice that provides clients with the legal tools they need to protect their assets, provide for their families, and ensure their wishes are honored. These services typically include drafting wills, establishing trusts, and creating powers of attorney for financial and medical decision-making. Attorneys also prepare advance directives and living wills to guide end-of-life care, and they structure plans to minimize taxes, avoid probate where possible, and safeguard wealth for future generations. For clients with unique needs, such as blended families, business ownership, or special-needs dependents, estate planning lawyers craft tailored strategies that offer clarity, control, and long-term protection. Overall, the goal is to give clients peace of mind by ensuring their affairs are in order and their legacy is secure.
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BUSINESS FORMATION
​A business formation practice helps entrepreneurs and established business owners establish a strong legal foundation for their ventures. Services typically include selecting the most suitable business structure—such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation—preparing and filing formation documents with the state, and drafting operating agreements or bylaws that clearly define ownership, management, and decision-making processes. Attorneys also advise on compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, help secure necessary licenses or permits, and provide guidance on protecting intellectual property and managing liability. For clients planning growth or investment, business formation lawyers offer strategies to structure the company for success and minimize future legal complications. The goal is to provide a solid, legally sound start that positions the business for long-term stability and growth.
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CIVIL LAWSUITS
Our civil litigation practice provides individuals and businesses with skilled representation in disputes that arise outside of criminal matters. Services typically include evaluating claims, filing lawsuits, responding to legal actions, and guiding clients through every stage of the litigation process—from discovery and negotiation to trial and, if necessary, appeal. Civil attorneys handle a wide range of matters, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, property issues, and business conflicts, working to protect clients’ rights and achieve favorable outcomes. They also focus on resolving conflicts efficiently through mediation or settlement when appropriate. The goal is to provide strategic advocacy, clear guidance, and strong representation to help clients navigate complex legal challenges and secure fair resolutions.
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PROBATES
We offer a comprehensive probate practice that guides families through the legal process of settling a loved one’s estate with clarity, efficiency, and compassion. These services often include validating the will, appointing an executor or administrator, identifying and valuing assets, notifying and addressing creditor claims, and ensuring all distributions follow Texas law and the decedent’s wishes. Probate attorneys assist in navigating court filings, resolving disputes among beneficiaries, and managing complex estates that may involve real property, businesses, or contested issues. Whether the estate is simple or intricate, the goal is to provide steady support during a difficult time, handle the legal burdens, and ensure the estate is administered properly, fairly, and in accordance with the law.
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BANKRUPTCY
Our bankruptcy practice helps individuals and businesses regain control of their financial future by providing clear guidance through the complexities of debt relief. These services include evaluating whether bankruptcy is the right option, preparing and filing Chapter 7, Chapter 11 or Chapter 13 cases, protecting clients from creditor harassment, and developing strategies to preserve essential assets. Attorneys assist in organizing financial information, addressing secured and unsecured debts, negotiating with creditors when appropriate, and ensuring all legal requirements are met throughout the process. For businesses, bankruptcy counsel can also help restructure operations, manage obligations, and explore alternatives to liquidation. The overall goal is to offer clients a fresh start, restore stability, and provide a path toward long-term financial recovery.