Probate Court Jurisdiction in Harris County
In Harris County, estate administration and marital property characterization disputes fall under the specialized statutory probate system. Independent executors, administrators, and surviving spouses must file inventories and accountings through the Texas e-filing portal (eFileTexas).
Courthouse Information
- Courts: Statutory Probate Courts Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
- Facility: Harris County Civil Courthouse
- Address: 201 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77002
- County Seat: Houston, Texas
- Governing Law: Texas Estates Code & Texas Family Code Chapter 3
Local Property Characterization Procedures in Harris County
Harris County maintains 5 specialized Statutory Probate Courts. Fiduciary property characterization and commingled account tracing are strictly audited by court-appointed masters.
Under Texas Estates Code § 309.051, all inventories must clearly distinguish separate property from community property. When separate property claims are challenged by heirs or creditors in Harris County, the claimant must present tracing schedules satisfying the clear and convincing evidence standard.
Key Filing Milestones in Harris County Probate
- Application for Probate / Letters: Filed within 4 years of decedent's death (Tex. Estates Code § 256.003).
- Inventory, Appraisement & List of Claims (§ 309.051): Due within 90 days of qualification.
- Notice to General Creditors (§ 308.051): Published within 1 month of qualification in a Harris County newspaper.
- Notice to Secured Creditors (§ 308.053): Served within 2 months of qualification.