The duration of probate depends on several factors unique to your situation. In Texas, there are two main types of probate administration: independent administration (faster and less court-involved) and dependent administration (more court oversight). Most estates in Texas qualify for independent administration, which is generally quicker and less restrictive.
If the estate is straightforward—no disputes, a clear will, modest assets, and cooperative heirs—you could see probate completed in 8 to 12 months. The executor files the will with the court, creditors are given time to make claims (usually 4 months), and then assets are distributed. This is the most common scenario.
Straightforward estates with a clear will and cooperative heirs typically resolve in 8–12 months. Complex estates with multiple properties or difficult-to-locate beneficiaries often run 18 months or longer. Contested matters, such as disputes or will challenges, can take 2 or more years.
Estate planning solutions tailored to your life, family, and goals.
We meet with you to understand your situation—what assets are involved, whether there’s a will, and whether you expect any complications. This conversation helps us explain realistic timelines specific to your estate.
We prepare and file all necessary paperwork with the Texas probate court, including the will, application for probate, and executor’s oath. We represent you at the court hearing at which the will is formally admitted, and the executor is appointed.
Texas law requires that creditors be notified and given a defined period to submit claims against the estate. We manage this process, evaluate incoming claims, and ensure only valid debts are paid before any distributions are made.
We work with you to identify, document, and protect all estate assets during administration — real property, financial accounts, and personal property — ensuring everything is accounted for and properly managed.
Once debts are settled, we handle the legal documentation needed to distribute property to beneficiaries, prepare the final accounting, and file all necessary documents to formally close the estate with the court.
Probate doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, even complex estates can move through the process efficiently and with minimal stress on your family. At The Goodson Firm P.C., Leigh Hunt Goodson walks you through every step — from the first court filing to the final distribution — so nothing is missed and your family is protected throughout. If you’re managing an estate and need to understand your next steps, schedule a confidential consultation today.
Ms. Leigh Goodson was fabulous in giving me advice for my father's situation. She was a wealth of knowledge and recommendations. We will be using her for further estate planning.
Leigh prepared estate documents for myself and my husband, and she did a fantastic job. Everyone at her office was friendly and easy to work with. The process was quick and easy, and we feel so much better knowing our affairs are in order. If anyone needs any estate planning help, I would 100% recommend Leigh and her office!
I knew from my experience working with attorneys for over 30 years that with a blended family my husband and I needed professional estate planning. Ms. Goodson provided us with excellent options and did a very thorough explanation of the pros and cons of each of them. She offered non-judgmental opinions and legal information about the equitable division of our blended families small estate. We chose to go with the more expensive trust option because it would be a simpler and less expensive probate for our children who almost all live out of state. She and her assistant made extra efforts to accommodate our schedule and the entire process was quickly completed. We highly recommend The Goodson Firm. P.C. for your estate planning and probate legal services.
Leigh Goodson is a professional attorney. She is available to clients and is responsive in urgent and standard matters. Her expertise has been very helpful. Highly recommend, The Goodson Firm.
Leigh Goodson is the attorney I trust to take care of my clients, friends, and family. She knows the law and works with her clients to make sure their priorities are addressed appropriately.
The right time to protect your legacy is before you need to. Schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting everything you have built and the people who matter most.
Locations in Tyler, Dallas, Plano, The Woodlands, & Bee Cave, Texas
