PROBATE LAWYER AUSTIN TX
Probate is the court-supervised process of validating a will and administering a deceased person's estate. In Austin, probate proceedings are handled by Travis County Probate Court. Texas offers several probate options depending on the size and complexity of the estate — from full independent administration to simplified muniment of title. Our Austin probate attorneys guide families through the process as efficiently as possible.
What We Can Help You With
Independent administration
The most common Texas probate — gives the executor broad powers to administer the estate without constant court supervision
Muniment of title
Streamlined probate for small estates or when real property is the main asset — avoids full probate
Small estate affidavit
For estates under $75,000 with no real property — completely avoids court
Dependent administration
Court-supervised administration when there are disputes or creditor issues
Heirship proceedings
When there is no will — determining heirs through court proceedings
Will contests
Defending or challenging a will's validity on grounds of lack of capacity, undue influence, or fraud
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does probate take in Travis County?▾
Independent administration typically takes 6–12 months. Muniment of title can be completed in 4–8 weeks. Complex estates with creditor disputes or will contests can take 2+ years.
What is independent administration in Texas?▾
Texas's most common probate method — the executor has broad authority to administer the estate and distribute assets without seeking court approval at each step. Most Texas wills include an independent administration provision.
What is muniment of title?▾
A simplified probate method when the only asset is real property and there are no unpaid debts. The court orders property to pass to heirs without appointing an executor or requiring full administration.
Can probate be avoided in Texas?▾
Partially — revocable trusts, payable-on-death designations, joint tenancy, and beneficiary designations all transfer assets outside probate. However, any assets in the deceased's name alone require probate.
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