Understanding the Probate Courts in Harris County, Texas

At Texas Probate Litigation, we represent clients in complex estate and trust disputes across the state—including a number of significant cases pending in Houston and Harris County. Whether it involves a contested will, a breach of fiduciary duty, removal of an executor, or a trust accounting dispute, we have experience litigating these issues in both the Harris County probate courts and in Houston area federal courts when appropriate.

If you're involved in a probate matter in Harris County—or considering legal action after a loved one's death—it helps to understand how the probate court system there works and what to expect from the process.

Harris County Probate Litigation

Harris County has a large and active probate system, with five statutory probate courts dedicated exclusively to probate, guardianship, and trust matters. These courts handle:

  • Will probates (contested and uncontested)

  • Heirship determinations

  • Executor appointments and removals

  • Fiduciary misconduct claims

  • Trust administration disputes

  • Guardianships and mental health matters

Cases are assigned to one of these five courts, all located in downtown Houston. While all five courts have the same legal jurisdiction, they each maintain their own docketing practices, filing preferences, and procedures for handling hearings.

The Five Probate Courts of Harris County

Harris County’s probate courts include:

  • Probate Court No. 1

  • Probate Court No. 2

  • Probate Court No. 3

  • Probate Court No. 4

  • Probate Court No. 5

Each court is staffed independently, and their practices can vary, especially when it comes to remote hearing procedures, docket preferences, and timelines for resolving contested matters. Some courts continue to use Zoom for certain proceedings, while others require in-person appearances for hearings involving testimony or significant evidence.

Harris County Will Contest

A will contest in Harris County begins when someone challenges the validity of a will already filed—or seeks to block the admission of a new will to probate. Common legal grounds include:

  • Lack of testamentary capacity

  • Undue influence or coercion

  • Fraud or forgery

  • Improper execution or failure to meet legal formalities

  • Conflicting or multiple wills

Contested probate cases often involve formal discovery, depositions, expert witnesses (such as handwriting or capacity experts), and evidentiary hearings. These are full-blown lawsuits that require litigation experience and an understanding of how to work within the framework of the Harris County courts.

Procedure and Technology

Each probate court in Harris County offers guidance on remote appearances, electronic filings, and courtroom expectations. In some cases, brief hearings or procedural matters may be handled via Zoom. However, more substantial contested issues are typically resolved through in-person hearings.

Procedural compliance is critical—especially when deadlines for objections, evidence submission, or appeals can impact a party’s rights. Anyone participating in a contested probate matter must be aware of court-specific rules and filing requirements.

Thinking About a Will Contest in Harris County?

If you believe a will was signed under pressure, improperly witnessed, or the product of manipulation, the place to resolve that dispute is the Harris County probate court system. These courts are well-equipped to handle contested cases—but the process is demanding and governed by strict legal standards.

We represent clients in contested estate and trust matters across Texas, including those pending in Harris County. If you’re facing a serious dispute involving a will, an executor, or a trust, we’re available to discuss your options and next steps.

Contact attorney J. Michael Young at (800) 323-1857.

J. Michael Young