about us
Probate Attorney Serving San Antonio, Bexar County, and Surrounding Areas
Losing someone is hard enough. When the legal process starts — the calls, the paperwork, the questions you don't know how to answer — it can feel like another weight on top of grief. I'm here to carry that part for you.
What Aria Law Handles — and What We Don't
Aria Law handles uncontested probate in Texas. That means estates where the will is valid, the heirs are in agreement, and the goal is to move through the process cleanly and close the estate correctly.
We do not handle will contests, disputed estates, creditor litigation, or any contested probate matter. That's not a gap in the practice — it's a deliberate boundary. Every client who comes to Aria Law for probate is navigating loss, not a fight. That's the work I do, and I do it well.
If your situation involves a dispute or active litigation, I'll tell you that directly and refer you to an attorney who handles contested matters.
Every tier is priced as a flat fee — quoted before any work begins. Payment plans are available for all three tiers. You'll know the number before you agree to anything.
The moment your child turns 18, you lose legal authority to make decisions on their behalf. A medical POA and durable POA change that. These documents are urgent for college students in particular.
Young adults (18+)
The Four Main Probate Processes in Texas
Texas offers several paths for settling an estate, depending on whether there's a will, the size of the estate, and what the court requires. Here's a plain-language overview of the most common options.
Independent Administration
Independent administration is the most common — and most efficient — form of Texas probate. The executor is appointed by the court but is not required to seek court approval for every action taken during the administration. This allows the estate to be settled faster and with significantly less court involvement than dependent administration. Most uncontested Texas estates with a valid will qualify for this path.
Dependent Administration
Dependent administration requires court oversight at nearly every step — asset inventories, expense approvals, and distributions all require a judge's sign-off. This process applies when the will requires it, heirs cannot agree on an independent executor, or the court determines it's necessary. It is slower and more costly than independent administration, but in some circumstances it's the appropriate path.
Muniment of Title
Muniment of title is available when the deceased left a valid will, there are no unpaid debts (other than those secured by real property), and no formal administration is otherwise required. Rather than opening a full probate proceeding, the court admits the will to record as proof of title — allowing real property and certain assets to transfer without appointing an executor. It is one of the faster and less expensive probate options available in Texas.
Small Estate Affidavit
If the deceased died without a will and the total value of the estate — excluding homestead and certain exempt property — is $75,000 or less, Texas law may allow heirs to collect assets using a small estate affidavit rather than opening a formal probate proceeding. This process has specific eligibility requirements and must be signed by all heirs and approved by a court.
What the Probate Process Looks Like at Aria Law
Initial Consultation
We start with a free consultation to review the situation — whether there's a will, what assets are involved, and which probate process applies. I'll tell you exactly what to expect, what it will cost, and how long it's likely to take. Flat fees apply to standard uncontested matters.
Court Filing and Executor Appointment
I prepare and file the probate application with the appropriate Texas court. Once the court approves the application and issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration, the executor has legal authority to act on behalf of the estate.
Estate Administration
With court authority in hand, the executor can gather assets, notify creditors, pay valid debts, and manage the estate's affairs. I guide every step of this process — preparing required notices, responding to creditor claims, and making sure every action is documented correctly to protect the executor from personal liability.
Distribution and Closing
Once debts are settled and the inventory is complete, the estate's remaining assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will — or Texas intestate succession law if there is no will. I prepare the closing documents and walk the executor through the final steps to formally close the estate.
What Executors Need to Know
Being named executor in a loved one's will is an honor — and a legal responsibility. You are accountable to the court and to the beneficiaries for every decision you make during administration. Mistakes can expose you to personal liability.
Working with an attorney through probate creates a documented, court-compliant record of every action you take. It protects you. It protects the beneficiaries. And it means you don't have to figure out Texas probate law while you're grieving.
You were trusted with this. I help you carry it correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Probate
How long does probate take in Texas?
Uncontested probate under independent administration — the most common path — typically takes six to twelve months from the initial filing to closing. The timeline depends on the complexity of the estate, the responsiveness of creditors, and court scheduling. Simpler options like muniment of title or a small estate affidavit can resolve more quickly.
Do I need a probate attorney in Texas?
In Texas, you can handle probate without an attorney (pro se) only in very narrow circumstances - specifically, if you are the sole beneficiary, the sole executor named in a valid will, there are no debts against the estate (other than real estate liens), and you are respresenting only your own personal interests. Otherwise, because an executor represents other beneficiaries and creditors, courts generally require a licensed attorney to avoid the unauthorized practice of law.
How much does probate cost in San Antonio?
Aria Law's depends on the complexity of the estate and the process required. You'll receive a specific quote during your free initial consultation before any work begins.
What is independent administration in Texas?
Independent administration is a Texas-specific probate process that allows an executor to settle an estate with minimal court involvement. Unlike dependent administration — where the court must approve most actions — an independent executor can gather assets, pay debts, and distribute the estate without seeking court approval at every step. It is faster, less expensive, and the standard path for most uncontested Texas estates with a valid will.
Is a probate attorney near Boerne available?
Yes. Aria Law serves Bexar County and surrounding counties including Kendall, Comal, Medina, and Bandera. Virtual consultations are also available throughout Texas for families who need guidance before filing.
Serving San Antonio, Bexar County, and Surrounding Counties
Aria Law handles uncontested probate in Bexar County and surrounding counties, including Kendall County (Boerne), Comal County (Bulverde), Medina County, and Bandera County. Virtual consultations are available throughout Texas for families who need guidance on where and how to file before the process begins.
The office is located at 17806 I-10 East, Suite 300, San Antonio, TX 78257.
