ProbateUS
Probate Court

Navarro County

Texas

903-654-3000

Fax

903-875-3326

Court Location & Contact

Address

300 W 3rd Ave, Corsicana, TX 75110

Fax

903-875-3326

Visit Official Court Website

Filing Fees

Navarro County, Texas

Fee TypeAmount
Petition for Probate$435

Judges & Officers

AP
Amanda Putman
JE
James E. Lagomarsino

Required Forms

Application for Probate of Will as Muniment of Title
Proof of Death and Other Facts (Muniment Proceeding)
Order Admitting Will to Probate as a Muniment of Title
Application of Determination of Heirship and For Letters of Administration
Original Answer of Attorney Ad Litem (Heirship Proceeding)
Proof of Death and Other Facts (Heirship Proceeding)
Affidavit of Heirship (Heirship Proceeding)
Order Declaring Heirship, Granting Administration and Appointing an Administrator
Oath (Heirship/Dependent Administration)
Application for Probate of Will and Issuance of Letters Testamentary
Proof of Death and Other Facts (Probate Proceeding)
Order Admitting Will to Probate and Authorizing Letters Testamentary
Oath (Independent Executor)
Affidavit of Heirship
Small Estate Affidavit

Probate Guide

Probate in Navarro County, Texas

The Navarro County Probate Court handles all matters related to the estates of deceased persons, including the validation of wills, appointment of executors and administrators, and the supervised distribution of assets. If you need to file for probate in Navarro County, TX, this guide covers what you need to know.

What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person's estate. It involves validating the will (if one exists), identifying and inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining property to heirs and beneficiaries. In Texas, the probate court in each county oversees this process.

When Is Probate Required in Texas?

Probate is generally required when:

  • The deceased owned real estate solely in their name

  • The estate contains assets above Texas's small estate threshold

  • There are disputes among heirs or creditors

  • Assets are not held in a trust or joint tenancy

Steps to File for Probate in Navarro County

  1. Locate the will (if one exists) and gather the death certificate

  2. File a petition with the Navarro County Probate Court to open probate

  3. Notify heirs and creditors as required by Texas law

  4. Inventory the estate — identify all assets, debts, and liabilities

  5. Pay debts and taxes — settle outstanding obligations from estate funds

  6. Distribute remaining assets — according to the will or state intestacy laws

  7. Close the estate — file a final accounting with the court

How Long Does Probate Take?

In Texas, probate typically takes 6 to 18 months depending on the complexity of the estate. Simple estates with no disputes may be resolved faster, while contested wills or complex asset distributions can take longer.

Do You Need a Probate Attorney?

While Texas does not always require an attorney for probate, it is strongly recommended, especially for estates with significant assets, real estate, business interests, or potential disputes. A local probate attorney familiar with Navarro County Probate Court procedures can help navigate the process efficiently.

Resources

For more information about the probate process, visit the Navarro County Probate Court directly or consult with a local probate attorney. You can also explore tools like EverSettled for step-by-step estate settlement guidance.

Additional Notes

The Navarro County Court at Law has concurrent jurisdiction with the 13th District Court, except for capital murder, and routinely hears civil, criminal, family, and juvenile cases. This court can also hear class A & B misdemeanors, probate matters, and appeals from the justice and municipal courts.

Office Hours

Monday-Friday8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

FAQ

Where do I file for probate in Navarro County, TX?

Probate petitions for estates in Navarro County are filed at the Navarro County Probate Court. Contact the court directly for filing instructions and office hours.

How much does probate cost in Navarro County?

Probate filing fees in Navarro County, Texas vary based on the estate value and type of petition. Contact the probate court clerk for the current fee schedule.

How long does probate take in Texas?

Probate in Texas typically takes 6 to 18 months. Timeline depends on estate complexity, creditor claims, and whether the will is contested.

Can I avoid probate?

Assets held in trusts, joint tenancy, or with designated beneficiaries (like life insurance and retirement accounts) can pass outside of probate. Consult with an estate planning attorney for strategies specific to your situation.

Do I need a lawyer for probate in Navarro County?

While not always legally required in Texas, a probate attorney is recommended for most estates, especially those involving real estate, business interests, or potential disputes among heirs.

What happens if someone dies without a will?

When someone dies intestate (without a will) in Texas, their assets are distributed according to state intestacy laws. The Navarro County Probate Court will appoint an administrator to manage the estate.

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