Typical Duration of Probate in Texas In Texas, the probate process generally takes between six months to a year. However, this timeline can vary based on the factors mentioned above. For uncomplicated estates with a valid will and cooperative beneficiaries, probate may conclude within a few months.
Probate Without an Attorney: The Muniment of Title Exception It is generally appropriate only in the simplest of small estates; for example, when the only property of an estate is a house that needs to be transferred to the sole beneficiary named in the will.
Ordinarily, an application to probate a will must be filed within four (4) years of the date of death of the decedent. Also, under normal circumstances, letters testamentary or letters of administration cannot be authorized more than four (4) years after the date of death of the decedent.
Independent Administration Application for Probate of Will and Issuance of Letters Testamentary. Form 7-2. Application for Probate of Copy of Will and Issuance of Letters Testamentary. Form 7-3. Application for Probate of Will and Issuance of Letters of Independent Administration. Form 7-4.
If you are dealing with an estate where you are the only beneficiary or heir, you are not legally required to hire an attorney. If the estate has more than you as the beneficiary or heir, then you do have to hire a probate attorney.
In Texas, probate is required if an estate's total value exceeds $75,000, excluding non-probate assets like life insurance payouts and retirement accounts with designated beneficiaries. Estates under this threshold may qualify for simplified procedures such as small estate affidavits or a muniment of title.
Probate is the legal process of validating a will and distributing assets, which often requires legal aid. Many families worry about covering these attorney costs. But, in Texas, the estate typically covers probate attorney fees.
Typical Duration of Probate in Texas In Texas, the probate process generally takes between six months to a year. However, this timeline can vary based on the factors mentioned above. For uncomplicated estates with a valid will and cooperative beneficiaries, probate may conclude within a few months.
Probate attorneys are required in most probate cases in Texas.
Probate of Will, Uncontested – $4,500-5,500 depending on the complexity (not including court/clerk fees/bond/etc.) Probate with No Will, Uncontested – $4,000-5,000 depending on complexity (not including court/clerk fees/ad litem/bond/etc.). Contested / Dependent Probate – billed hourly at $425.