If you’re handling an estate in San Antonio, Duffley Law provides steady, clear guidance through the probate process so you don’t have to face it alone.
Losing a loved one is hard enough. Handling probate afterward can feel overwhelming, especially when court deadlines, legal documents, and unanswered questions start piling up.
With a median home value around $305,000 in the area, probate often affects a family’s most important asset. Having an experienced probate attorney helps confirm the estate is administered correctly and with fewer delays.
Clients come to Duffley Law because they want clarity and reassurance during a difficult time. As one client shared, “They explained everything every step of the way and made the entire process very easy. All of our concerns were put to rest working with the firm.” That approach guides every probate matter we handle.
If you’re serving as an executor, managing an estate without a will, or trying to understand what the court requires next, Duffley Law helps you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
What Is Probate and Why It Matters in San Antonio
Probate is the legal process used to settle a person’s estate after they pass away. It involves validating a will, identifying heirs, paying debts, and transferring property under court supervision.
Many estates cannot be settled without court involvement. In Texas, probate is often required when a person owned real estate, held assets without proper documents like survivorship agreement and trusts, or passed away without a will. With home values in San Antonio commonly exceeding $300,000, probate frequently affects a family’s primary residence, making accuracy even more important.
For families already coping with loss, probate can feel confusing and stressful. Court filings, deadlines, notices to heirs, and creditor requirements can quickly become overwhelming without guidance. Errors or delays may extend the process for months and create unnecessary tension among family members.
A knowledgeable probate attorney helps confirm the estate is handled properly, requirements are met, and loved ones are protected throughout the process. With the right support, probate becomes a structured path forward rather than an added burden during an already difficult time.
Our Probate Services in San Antonio
- Probate administration
- Estate settlement
- Will preparation and review
- Revocable Trusts
- Irrevocable living trusts
- Powers of attorney
- Advance directives
- Transfer-on-death deeds
- Beneficiary deeds
- Guardianship
- Special-needs planning
- Probate of Wills
- Intestate Estates
- Heirship Proceedings
- Real Estate in Probate
- Executor Guidance
- Muniment of Title & Small Estate Affidavits
- Small Estate Affidavits
- Affidavits of Heirship
Why Work With Duffley Law For Your Probate Case
Families choose Duffley Law for probate matters because they want guidance that is clear, personal, and dependable during a difficult time.
Probate-Focused Guidance
We handle probate regularly and understand the requirements of the Bexar County Probate Court. From filings to final distribution, your case is managed with accuracy and care.
Clear Explanations
Probate can feel confusing. We explain each step in straightforward terms so you always understand what’s happening, what’s required, and what comes next.
Compassionate Support During a Difficult Time
Probate often follows a loss. We approach every case with patience, kindness, and sensitivity to what your family is going through.
Reliable Communication
Clients value that we are easy to reach and responsive. We strive to return calls and emails promptly so you’re never left wondering about your case.
Results That Bring Peace of Mind
Our goal is simple: handle probate correctly, avoid unnecessary delays, and help families move forward with confidence.
How Probate Works in Bexar County
Probate cases for San Antonio residents are typically handled through the Bexar County Probate Court, located in downtown San Antonio. The court oversees the legal steps required to settle an estate and confirm assets are distributed according to Texas law.
While every case is different, probate in Bexar County generally follows this process:
- Opening the Estate
A probate case is filed with the court by an executor named in the will or by an interested party if no will exists. - Appointment of an Executor or Administrator
After completing required filings, notices, and court requests, the court holds a hearing. If all goes well, the court formally appoints someone to manage the estate and issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration. - Notice to Heirs and Creditors
Texas law requires notice to be provided so that heirs and creditors have an opportunity to assert their rights. - Inventory of the Estate
The estate’s assets are identified, valued, and reported to the court, including real estate, bank accounts, and personal property. - Payment of Debts and Expenses
Valid debts, taxes, and final expenses are paid before assets can be distributed. - Distribution of Assets
Remaining property is distributed to heirs or beneficiaries under the will or Texas intestacy laws.
Each case has specific deadlines to meet, and the type of probate case can change what’s required.
In many uncontested cases, probate in Bexar County takes months to complete. Estates involving disputes, unclear ownership, or missing heirs may take longer.More complicated or contested cases can take over a year. Following the correct process from the start helps avoid delays and unnecessary court involvement.
Probate Without a Will in Texas
When someone passes away without a will, their estate often must still go through probate. In Texas, this is called “intestate probate,” and the process is often more complex than probate with a valid will.
Without written instructions, the Texas Estates Code determines who inherits the estate. The court must first establish who the legal heirs are, which often requires a formal determination of heirship. This step can add time, costs, paperwork, and stress for families, especially when real estate or blended families are involved.
For San Antonio families, intestate probate is handled through the Bexar County Probate Court and typically includes:
- Court appointment of an “administrator” instead of an “executor”
- Heirship hearings to legally identify family members, including a court-appointed attorney ad litem’s investigation to confirm the decedent’s family history
- Additional court oversight and reporting requirements
- Delays in selling or transferring property until heirs are confirmed
Intestate probate commonly affects homes, bank accounts, and other assets held solely in the deceased person’s name. It tends to be a much longer process than probate with a valid will.
About Duffley Law
Duffley Law provides probate guidance to families across Texas, including San Antonio and Bexar County. Founded by Jack Duffley, our firm focuses on helping families handle probate with patience and steady support during an already difficult time.
Clients come to us when they need answers they can trust. We take the time to explain each step of the probate process and guide executors and families through court requirements with care and precision. Every estate is different, and every family deserves attention that reflects that.
If we are helping administer an estate with a will or guiding a family through probate without one, our goal is always to reduce stress, prevent delays, and help you move forward with confidence.
What Clients Say About Us
“They explained everything every step of the way and put all of our concerns to rest.” — Dr. Dave
Working through probate and estate matters can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what the court requires.
“They genuinely cared and made everything easy to understand.” — Mathis O.
We focus on custom guidance, taking time to explain filings, timelines, and court expectations in plain language.
“They held our hand through the process and answered every question.” — Pastor JR Mosley
This reflects our commitment to kindness, respect, and human communication, especially when families are dealing with loss.
“They made the process so easy and were very fast at getting things done.” — Roganne T.
Speed and clarity helped this client complete important legal steps without added stress or uncertainty.
Local Resources We Work With in San Antonio
Families dealing with probate in San Antonio often interact with the following local offices and institutions:
- Bexar County Probate Court — 100 Dolorosa Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Bexar County Clerk’s Office — 100 Dolorosa Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Bexar County Tax Assessor-Collector — 233 N. Pecos-La Trinidad, San Antonio, TX 78207
- Bexar County Appraisal District — 411 N. Frio Street, San Antonio, TX 78207
- San Antonio Title Companies — for probate real estate transfers and title updates
- Local Funeral Homes and Memorial Services — often involved early in the probate timeline
- San Antonio Area Senior Services — support resources for surviving spouses and families
Our Process For San Antonio Families
We follow a clear, step-by-step process designed to reduce stress and keep probate moving forward.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We listen first. You’ll explain your situation, and we’ll review your options and provide pricing. If all sounds good, we’ll move forward with next steps..
Step 2: Case Review and Strategy
Our legal team will review available documents, assets, and family circumstances to determine the best path forward.
Step 3: Court Filings and Appointment
We prepare and file the required probate documents and guide you through the court appointment of an executor or administrator.
Step 4: Estate Administration
We assist with notices, inventory, creditor matters, and any required reporting while keeping you informed at every stage.
Step 5: Asset Distribution and Closing
Once court requirements are met, we help clarify asset distributionand closing the estate..
Talk to a Probate Attorney in San Antonio Today
If you’re responsible for handling a loved one’s estate, you don’t have to handle probate on your own. Duffley Law helps San Antonio families move through the probate process with clarity, patience, and steady legal guidance.
When you contact our office, you’ll speak with someone who listens first, explains your options clearly, and helps you understand exactly what the court requires next.
If you’re dealing with probate with a will or probate without one, we focus on reducing stress, avoiding delays, and protecting your family throughout the process.
Contact us today!