Texas probate process

Filing

An application to probate the will is filed in the county court at law (in larger counties, the statutory probate court) of the county where the decedent lived.

Texas heavily favors independent administration where the will provides for it; the executor settles the estate with limited court supervision.

Hearing and Letters

After a brief hearing, the court admits the will and issues Letters Testamentary.

Inventory, claims, and administration

The executor files an inventory (or, when permitted, an affidavit in lieu of inventory) and handles creditor claims.

In an independent administration, the executor pays valid debts, manages or sells assets, and distributes without ongoing court approval.

Closing

Texas independent administrations often close informally — the executor distributes, files a closing report, and the file becomes inactive.