How Do I File Probate in Dallas County, Texas?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Statutory Probate Courts (3)—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
If you're handling probate yourself in Dallas County, Texas, you can file at the Statutory Probate Courts (3) in person or by mail. E-filing is mandatory for attorneys but families filing without one are exempt and can use paper forms. The court sits in the Probate Courts 1, 2, and 3.
Filings here are routed through Probate Courts Division (County Clerk), Probate Court No. 1, Probate Court No. 2, and Probate Court No. 3. Confirm with the office which intake handles the petition type you're filing.
Your Filing Options
How to File Your Documents
Paper Filing Available
You can file your probate documents in person or by mail. While attorneys are required to e-file in Dallas County, families handling probate themselves are exempt and can file on paper.
E-Filing Also Available
If you prefer, you can file electronically through the state's online system. This is optional for families filing without an attorney.
View E-Filing InformationPaper Filing Required For
- •Original wills (must be filed in person within 3 days)
Can You File Without an Attorney?
Not every estate requires an attorney. Factors like estate size, asset types, and whether beneficiaries agree can determine if self-filing at the Statutory Probate Courts (3) is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Dallas County Self-Filing Assessment.
Dallas County Filing Requirements
These are specific requirements for filing probate in this county. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays or rejected filings.
Before You File
Separate filing required for each cause number listed on documents
Civil Case Information Sheet (TRCP 78a) AND Supplementary Probate Court Information Sheet required with all original applications
Death certificate must be filed with all probate applications
Proposed orders must be submitted as attachment to a lead document; courtesy copy required for documents larger than 10 pages
Document Requirements
For filing questions call (214) 653-7422; for copies call (214) 653-7424
Service Requirements
Citations, postings & publications contact: (214) 653-7573 or Probate.Service@dallascounty.org
In-Person Filing
The Statutory Probate Courts (3) is located at 600 Commerce Street, 7th Floor, Dallas, TX 75202. Phone: 214-653-7099. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
What to Bring
To file at the Statutory Probate Courts (3) you need: the original will (or proof there isn't one), a certified death certificate, contact information for all heirs and beneficiaries, and a summary of what the estate owns and owes.
Court Resources
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the Statutory Probate Courts (3) website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Statutory Probate Courts (3) in Dallas County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($360). Once the court issues letters, the personal representative can act.
At minimum: petition for probate, application for letters testamentary or of administration, notice to heirs, and an oath for the personal representative. Dallas County uses the standard Texas probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Texas permits self-representation, but formal probate procedures make it impractical for most families. The Statutory Probate Courts (3) staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the Texas self-filing assessment before deciding.
Yes. The Statutory Probate Courts (3) in Dallas County accepts e-filing through the state portal. In-person filing at the courthouse is still available for those without digital access.
Assets stay locked, creditors can still pursue them, and beneficiaries cannot sell real property or close accounts. After a few years, interested parties can petition to open probate themselves. Waiting rarely helps. Families who set up a revocable living trust ahead of time bypass this problem entirely.
Statutory Probate Courts (3)
Dallas County
600 Commerce Street, 7th Floor
Dallas, TX 75202
Phone:
214-653-7099Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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