Overview
Bexar County is the fourth-most populous county in Texas, encompassing the city of San Antonio. The county operates two statutory probate courts that handle decedents' estates, guardianships, mental health commitments, and related matters.
In Bexar County, most estates proceed through independent administration, which allows the executor to manage and distribute the estate without ongoing court approval. Dependent administration may be ordered when the court determines supervision is warranted. Muniment of title is available when the decedent left a valid will and had no unpaid unsecured debts — this is often the fastest path through probate.
As a community property state, Texas recognizes that a surviving spouse already owns half of all community property. Texas imposes no state income tax and no state estate or inheritance tax.
For intestate estates with personal property valued at $75,000 or less, a small estate affidavit may provide a simpler alternative to full probate administration. Texas law also allows individuals to deposit their will with the County Clerk for safekeeping during their lifetime for a nominal fee.
This guide provides informational context about probate in Bexar County. It does not constitute legal advice, and individuals are encouraged to consult a licensed attorney for guidance on their specific circumstances.
Courthouse Information
Bexar County Probate Courts
Bexar County has two statutory probate courts:
- Probate Court No. 1 — Judge Oscar Kazen
- Probate Court No. 2 — Judge Veronica Vasquez
Address: Bexar County Courthouse, 100 Dolorosa, Suite 104, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 335-2241 (Probate Department)
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The County Clerk's Probate Department manages filings and records. The Bexar County Law Library may be consulted for forms and self-help resources.
For more information, visit the Bexar County Probate Courts page.
Filing Process
How to File for Probate in Bexar County
Step 1: Determine the Probate Method
- Independent Administration: Executor manages the estate independently after court appointment.
- Dependent Administration: Court-supervised process for more complex or disputed situations.
- Muniment of Title: Simplified process for estates with a will and no unpaid unsecured debts.
- Small Estate Affidavit: For intestate estates with personal property under $75,000.
- Determination of Heirship: Used when someone dies without a will.
Step 2: File Electronically
All probate filings should be submitted through eFileTexas.gov. You must select an electronic filing service provider (EFSP) to submit documents. The original will must be delivered to the Probate Department after e-filing.
Step 3: Provide Required Notices
- Citation posted at the courthouse for at least 10 days.
- Citation by publication for heirship proceedings in a newspaper of general circulation.
Step 4: Attend the Probate Hearing
After the waiting period, the court schedules a hearing. For uncontested matters, the hearing typically involves verifying the application and will.
Step 5: Publish Notice to Creditors
The personal representative must publish notice to creditors within 30 days of appointment, then wait four months for claims.
Step 6: File Inventory and Complete Administration
File the inventory within 90 days. For independent administration, distribute assets according to the will or intestacy laws and file a closing affidavit.
Local Requirements
Bexar County Probate Local Requirements
- E-filing is mandatory for attorneys. File through eFileTexas.gov by selecting an electronic filing service provider (EFSP).
- Bexar County maintains Local Court Rules that apply to both probate courts, available at bexar.org/3717/Local-Rules. However, each judge may have individual procedures for how they manage their courtroom.
- The County Clerk's Probate Department generally does not provide probate forms to the public. For forms and templates, consult the Bexar County Law Library.
- Will safekeeping: Texas law allows individuals to deposit their will with the Bexar County Clerk for a one-time fee of $5.00.
- The San Antonio Hart Beat (salegalnews.com) is a legal publication commonly used for probate notices in Bexar County.
- The Probate Department has a Guide for the Texas Independent Executor available on their website.
- Effective October 1, 2025, the Probate Department implemented a new case numbering system for guardianship cases.
Timeline & Fees
Filing Fees
Bexar County probate filing fees (approximate):
- New Probate Application: Approximately $360
- Subsequent Filings: Varies by type of filing
- Will Deposit for Safekeeping: $5
Fees are subject to change. Verify current fees with the Bexar County Probate Department Fee Schedule or call (210) 335-2241.
Typical Timelines
- Muniment of Title: Approximately 30 to 60 days for straightforward cases.
- Independent Administration (simple estate): Approximately 6 to 9 months, including the four-month creditor claim period.
- Dependent Administration or Contested Cases: 12 to 24+ months, depending on complexity.
These are general estimates. Court scheduling and completeness of filings affect actual timelines.
Local Resources
Helpful Resources for Bexar County Probate
- Bexar County Probate Courts — Court information and judge contact details
- Bexar County Probate Department — Filing information from the County Clerk
- Bexar County Probate Fee Schedule — Current filing fees (PDF)
- Bexar County Local Rules — Local court rules
- Probate Court Orders & Forms — Court orders and available forms
- Guide for the Texas Independent Executor — Informational guide (PDF)
- eFileTexas.gov — Electronic filing portal
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.