Probate Courts in the Texas Hill Country

Each Texas county has its own probate court with specific procedures, filing requirements, and timelines. Texas has 254 counties — more than any other state — and each one handles probate matters through its county-level court system. For those in the San Antonio area, the San Antonio probate court (Bexar County Probate Court) is the busiest in the region. Understanding the local court where your case will be filed helps you plan more effectively and avoid delays.

"Probate matters in Texas are filed in the county where the decedent resided at the time of death. Each county court operates under the Texas Estates Code but may have local rules regarding scheduling, filing procedures, and required documentation."

What Happens if There Is No Will?

When a Texas resident dies without a will (intestate), the probate court appoints an administrator to manage the estate. Texas law provides a priority order for who may serve: first the surviving spouse, then adult children, then other heirs. Without a will, the estate must go through either independent or dependent administration, and the court will need to formally declare the heirs through a Judgment of Heirship — a separate proceeding that can take weeks to months and requires the appointment of an attorney ad litem to locate all potential heirs.