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Use This County Probate Reference Before You File

This page is built for the detailed county-level checks that generic probate guides usually miss: local filing fees, clerk contact details, administrative orders, e-filing rules, and hearing logistics for Harris County.

Local Fee Schedule

Review county-specific probate filing charges before you estimate total case cost.

Court Rules and Orders

Check the local rules, judge procedures, and administrative orders that can change how a case moves.

Clerk and Filing Logistics

Confirm where to file, whether e-filing is allowed, and how hearings or notices are handled locally.

Harris County Probate Court Guide

Harris County probate court information · Updated January 2026

(713) 274-8585County Clerk
Family Guide
Professional Reference

Filing & Fees

Complete Fee Schedule

Probate Filing Fees

Filing TypeFee
Petition for Probate
Standard probate filing fee
$360

Accepted Payment: Cash, Check, Money Order, Credit Card

Note: Filing fee for new estate cases (probate, administration, guardianship) is $360. Credit cards accepted (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express). No internet payment processing available.

Document Fees

Certified Copy (per page)
$1
Payment Methods: Cash, Check, Money Order, Credit Card

Filing fee for new estate cases (probate, administration, guardianship) is $360. Credit cards accepted (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express). No internet payment processing available.

Required Documents

  • Certified Death Certificate

    Order 10-15 certified copies from Texas DSHS Vital Statistics

  • Original Will

    Original will if one exists

  • Application to Probate Will

    County-specific form

  • Oath of Executor/Administrator

    Must be signed and notarized

E-Filing & Filing Methods

Source ↗
Filing Methods: in person, mail, e file, fax

Timelines & Proceedings

Deadlines & Creditor Claims

Key Deadlines

Will Deposit
0 days
Creditor Claims
4 months
Known Creditor Notice
60 days

Creditor Claims

Period Starts
first publication of notice to creditors
Statute
Texas Estates Code Chapter 308

Publication Requirements

Notice to Creditors

Duration
Once

Notice of Petition/Administration

  • Beneficiaries
  • Known creditors
  • Surviving spouse

Related Proceedings

Property Recording

Source ↗

Recording Fees

First Page
$Based on page count

Guardianship

Texas guardianship is governed by the Texas Estates Code and requires court approval.

guardian of person

Guardian responsible for the physical well-being and care of the ward

guardian of estate

Guardian responsible for managing the ward's property and finances

Guardian Training

Guardian training requirements vary by county. Contact local court for approved providers.

Court Rules & Orders

Local Rules

  • E-filing mandatory for attorneys since January 1, 2014
  • E-filing optional for self-represented (pro se) parties
  • After-hours drop box available on building exterior
  • Online docket scheduling available for Courts No. 2, 3, and 5
  • Pro Se Applicants Policy available on court website
  • Standards for Attorney Fees guidance available

Information current as of January 11, 2026

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in Texas can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.