General information, not legal advice. Texas requires an executor to be represented by a licensed attorney in probate court in most circumstances. Consult a probate attorney about your specific situation.
Which court handles probate in Taylor County
| Court | Handles | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Taylor County Court | Constitutional probate / general | 300 Oak St, Abilene, TX 79602 |
| County Court at Law #1 | Surnames A–K | 300 Oak St, Suite 500 |
| County Court at Law #2 | Surnames L–Z | 300 Oak St |
Court information, fees and hours can change. Confirm the filing destination, judge assignment, current clerk contact and eFileTexas requirements directly with Taylor County before filing.
What it costs to file
The research plan lists a $360 base fee for probate filings, plus possible citation, letter, signature, inventory and jury charges. These are court charges only; attorney fees are separate. Verify the current schedule with the clerk before relying on any amount.
Do you need a lawyer?
In most cases, yes. Texas courts have held that an executor representing an estate with other beneficiaries or creditors is practicing law; see Steele v. McDonald, 202 S.W.3d 926 and In re Guetersloh, 326 S.W.3d 737. A narrow exception may apply where the executor is sole beneficiary and there are no third-party debts.
The realistic timeline
- File the application.
- Allow the 10-day citation posting period (Tex. Est. Code §258.001).
- Attend the hearing and take the oath.
- Receive letters after the signed order; many uncomplicated cases take 2–6 weeks from filing overall.
- Meet beneficiary, creditor and inventory deadlines, including §§308.002, 308.051, 308.053, 308.004 and 309.051.
Independent vs. dependent administration
Independent administration often allows an executor to manage estate property without repeated court approval. Dependent administration can require court involvement for major actions. That distinction changes when a cleanout contract may be appropriate.
When you can actually start clearing the house
You may take steps to preserve a property, such as securing it and stopping active damage. Disposing of or distributing contents requires proper authority.
Read what can wait until probate authority issues.
Common questions
How long does probate take in Taylor County?
The simple path can take weeks to open, but settlement depends on assets, creditors and disputes.
Can I sell the house before probate is done?
Ask the estate attorney; authority depends on the administration type and court orders.
What if there is no will?
An attorney can explain administration, heirship and small-estate options.