Bexar County Justice Center • Probate Courts 1–2 • Downtown San Antonio
Overview of Texas Probate Law
Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person's estate — validating their will (if one exists), identifying and appraising assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining property to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries.
Texas probate law is governed by the Texas Estates Code, which provides several pathways through probate depending on the estate's size, complexity, and whether the deceased left a valid will. Compared to many states, Texas offers relatively streamlined probate options — particularly independent administration, which allows executors to manage estates with minimal court oversight.
Bexar County (pronounced "Bear") is home to San Antonio, Texas's second-largest city. Its two dedicated statutory probate courts serve one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas, including a large military community (Fort Sam Houston, Lackland AFB, Randolph AFB) and a significant retiree population. Understanding which type of probate applies to your situation is the first step toward an efficient resolution.
Types of Probate in Texas
Texas offers multiple probate pathways. The right choice depends on whether there's a will, the estate's size, and the level of complexity involved.
Muniment of Title
Fastest option when a valid will exists and there are no unpaid unsecured debts.
6–8 weeks · $2,500–$4,500
Independent Administration
Most common probate in Texas. Executor manages the estate with minimal court oversight.
6–12 months · $4,000–$8,000
Small Estate Affidavit
No will required. For estates under $75,000 (excluding homestead).
30–60 days · $1,500–$3,000
Affidavit of Heirship
Transfers real property without probate. No court hearing required.
2–4 weeks · $1,500–$3,500
Intestate Succession
When someone dies without a will. Court determines heirs through heirship proceeding.
6–12 months · $4,000–$10,000
Will Contest
Challenging a will's validity due to undue influence, fraud, or lack of capacity.
6 months – 2+ years · $5,000–$25,000+
Bexar County Probate Courts
Bexar County has two statutory probate courts, both located at the Bexar County Justice Center in downtown San Antonio at 100 Dolorosa Street. Both courts handle the full range of probate matters — wills, heirships, administrations, guardianships, and trust disputes.
Visit the Bexar County Probate Courts website for official court information and current docket procedures.
| Court | Judge | Location | Phone | Remote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Court No. 1 | Judge Oscar J. Kazen | 100 Dolorosa St | (210) 335-2323 | Available |
| Court No. 2 | Judge Tom Rickhoff | 100 Dolorosa St | (210) 335-2323 | Available |
Both courts maintain regular docket settings throughout the week. Office hours are generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Check the individual court pages or contact the Bexar County District Clerk for current Zoom or remote hearing procedures.
Search Probate Court Records Online
Look up any probate case filed in Bexar County through the District Clerk's public records portal.
Search Probate Records →Note: Judge names and court details are current as of May 2026. Verify current assignments at the Bexar County Probate Courts website.
Getting to the Courthouse
While most uncontested probate hearings can be attended remotely, some matters — particularly contested cases like will contests or complex evidentiary hearings — may require an in-person appearance.
Driving Directions by Freeway
I-35 South / US-281 South
Take I-35 South or US-281 South toward downtown. Exit at Commerce Street. Head west on Commerce, then turn left on Dolorosa Street. Justice Center is on the right.
I-35 North (from Laredo / Corpus Christi)
Take I-35 North toward downtown San Antonio. Exit at Cesar Chavez Blvd. Follow Cesar Chavez east, then turn left on Dolorosa Street. Justice Center is ahead.
I-10 East (from El Paso / Kerrville)
Take I-10 East toward downtown. Exit at Probandt Street / Cesar Chavez Blvd. Head east on Cesar Chavez, then turn right on Dolorosa Street.
I-10 West (from Houston / Seguin)
Take I-10 West toward downtown San Antonio. Exit at Commerce Street. Head west on Commerce, then left on Dolorosa Street. Justice Center is on the right.
Parking
Bexar County Parking Garage
Adjacent to the Justice Center on Dolorosa Street — most convenient for courthouse visitors. Rates vary; arrive early.
Surface Lots & Nearby Garages
Multiple paid lots near the Riverwalk and along Commerce, Santa Rosa, and Camaron Streets. ParkMobile and SpotHero cover several downtown garages.
VIA Metropolitan Transit
Multiple VIA bus routes serve downtown San Antonio. The Justice Center is walkable from the Commerce St / Soledad stop — a stress-free alternative if coming from the Medical Center, UTSA corridor, or the North Side.
Tip: Most uncontested probate hearings last 10–15 minutes. Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early to clear security and find the courtroom. Kyle Robbins will provide specific courtroom information and entry instructions before your hearing.
Filing Requirements & Procedures
All probate matters in Bexar County are filed with the Bexar County District Clerk's Office. The general process involves:
- Prepare the application — The specific application depends on the type of probate (e.g., Application to Probate Will as Muniment of Title, Application for Independent Administration, Application for Heirship Determination).
- Attach required documents — Original will (if applicable), certified death certificate, and any supporting affidavits.
- Pay filing fees — Approximately $300–$400 for most probate applications in Bexar County.
- Post citation — The court posts public notice for at least 10 days before the hearing (required for most proceedings).
- Attend the hearing — Brief testimony before the assigned probate judge. Most uncontested hearings take 10–15 minutes.
- Receive court orders — Letters Testamentary (with will) or Letters of Administration (without will) grant legal authority to act on behalf of the estate.
All filings in Bexar County can be submitted electronically through efiletexas.gov, and your attorney handles this process entirely.
Remote Hearings & Appearances
Both Bexar County probate courts accommodate remote appearances for most uncontested matters, including:
- Muniment of title hearings
- Independent administration appointments
- Heirship determinations
- Inventory approvals
- Routine motions and status conferences
This means families across San Antonio, across Texas, or even out of state — including active-duty military families stationed away — can navigate Bexar County probate without ever visiting the courthouse for routine matters. Kyle Robbins handles all electronic filings and coordinates remote appearances, making the process as convenient as possible regardless of where you're located.
Contested matters (such as will contests) may eventually require in-person appearances, particularly for trials or complex evidentiary hearings.
Timeline Expectations
How long probate takes in Bexar County depends primarily on the type of proceeding and whether the case is contested:
These timelines assume uncontested proceedings. Any dispute, missing document, or complication can extend the process. Working with an experienced Bexar County probate attorney helps avoid common delays.
Cost Overview
Probate costs in Bexar County include attorney fees, court filing fees, and potential additional expenses:
- Court filing fees: $300–$400 for most applications
- Attorney fees: Vary by proceeding type (see ranges above)
- Surety bond: Required in some cases — typically 0.5–1% of estate value annually
- Appraisals: May be needed for real property, business interests, or valuable personal property
- Attorney ad litem: Court-appointed attorney for unknown heirs in intestate cases — fees paid by the estate
- Guardian ad litem: May be required when minor heirs are involved
- Certified copies: $2–$5 per page for court documents needed for asset transfers
Kyle Robbins provides transparent fee quotes before you commit, so there are no surprises. Schedule a free consultation to get a specific estimate for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Attorney Advertising. The information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique — contact us for guidance specific to your situation. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.