Overview
Uvalde County is located in Texas with a population of approximately 25,000. The Uvalde County Court handles all probate and estate matters for decedents who were domiciled in the county at the time of death.
Texas probate is governed by the Texas Estates Code. The process begins with filing a Application for Probate of Will and Issuance of Letters Testamentary to admit the will and appoint a personal representative. The court then issues Letters Testamentary for testate estates or Letters of Administration for intestate estates.
Texas offers a simplified procedure known as the Small Estate Affidavit for estates valued at $75,000 or less (excluding homestead and exempt property) where there is no will. This process is faster and less expensive than full administration.
Texas law allows for independent administration, which minimizes court supervision. Statutory executor fees are generally capped at 5% of all sums received and paid out in cash, though this can vary by will terms.
This guide provides an informational overview of the Uvalde County probate process. It is not legal advice and is not a substitute for consulting a qualified attorney. Laws and local procedures may change — verify current requirements with the court.
Courthouse Information
Uvalde County Court
Probate matters in Uvalde County are handled at the Uvalde County Courthouse.
Address: Courthouse Square #20, Uvalde, TX 78801
Phone: (830) 278-6614 (County Clerk)
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
The County Clerk's office is responsible for maintaining probate records. The Constitutional County Court typically presides over uncontested probate matters.
Parking and Access
Public parking is available around the Courthouse Square. The building is accessible to the public during business hours, with security screening at the entrance.
Filing Process
Step 1: Determine If Probate Is Necessary
Before filing, assess whether formal probate is required:
- Small Estate Affidavit: If the estate is valued at $75,000 or less (excluding homestead and exempt property) and there is no will.
- Muniment of Title: If there is a will and no debts (other than a mortgage), this procedure transfers title without full administration.
- Trust administration: Assets held in a living trust generally do not require probate.
Step 2: File the Petition
If formal probate is needed, file an Application for Probate with the Uvalde County Court. Include:
- Original Will (if applicable)
- Certified death certificate
- Filing fee (approximately $360)
- Civil Case Information Sheet
E-filing is mandatory for attorneys and available for pro se litigants in many Texas counties.
Step 3: Provide Notice
After filing, you must:
- Post notice at the courthouse (handled by the clerk/sheriff) for at least 10 days before the hearing.
- Publish notice to creditors in a newspaper of general circulation in Uvalde County (e.g., Uvalde Leader-News) within one month of receiving Letters.
Step 4: Attend the Hearing
The court will schedule a hearing on the petition, typically 2 to 3 weeks after filing (following the 10-day posting period). At the hearing, the judge reviews the petition and, if approved, issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration.
Step 5: Administer the Estate
After receiving Letters, the personal representative must:
- Notify secured creditors and beneficiaries within specific statutory timelines.
- Inventory and appraise all estate assets within 90 days.
- Pay valid creditor claims.
- File federal and state tax returns as needed.
- Distribute assets to beneficiaries.
- File a closing report or notice of closing the estate.
Local Requirements
Uvalde County-Specific Procedures
- E-filing: Texas courts generally require e-filing for civil and probate matters.
- Hearings: Hearings are typically held in the County Court. Check with the court coordinator for available docket times.
- Publication: Notice to creditors must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in Uvalde County, such as the Uvalde Leader-News.
Always check with the County Clerk for the most up-to-date local rules and standing orders.
Timeline & Fees
Filing Fees (Uvalde County)
- Probate of Will / Letters Testamentary: approximately $360
- Administration / Heirship: approximately $360
- Small Estate Affidavit: approximately $360
- Publication costs: approximately $100-$200 depending on the newspaper
- Posting/Citation: Included in base fee or ~$75 extra depending on service method
Texas statutory executor commissions are generally 5% of funds received and paid out, excluding cash on hand at death.
Payment Methods
The court accepts cash, credit cards, money orders, and cashier's checks. Convenience fees apply to credit card payments.
Estimated Timelines
- Simple estates (Independent Administration): 4-8 months
- Average estates: 6-12 months
- Complex or contested estates: 1 year or more
The mandatory 10-day posting period before a hearing and the 90-day inventory deadline are key statutory milestones.
Local Resources
Uvalde County Court Resources
- Court Website: uvaldecounty.gov
- Probate Self-Help: Texas Law Help
- Texas Probate Forms: Texas Judicial Branch
Legal Aid and Attorney Referrals
- State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral: texasbar.com
- Texas RioGrande Legal Aid: (830) 278-3221 — Provides legal services to low-income residents.
Publication
- Uvalde Leader-News: (830) 278-3335 — uvaldeleadernews.com