How Much Does Probate Cost in San Antonio? 2026 Guide

One of the first questions families ask after losing a loved one is: "How much is this going to cost?" It is a fair question, and unfortunately, many probate attorneys give vague answers. In this guide, we break down every cost you can expect.

Probate Cost Overview

The total cost of probate in San Antonio depends on the type of probate proceeding, the complexity of the estate, and whether the case is contested. For a straightforward, uncontested probate, most families can expect to spend between $2,500 and $5,000 total — including attorney fees, court costs, and miscellaneous expenses.

Probate costs generally fall into four categories: court filing fees, attorney fees, publication and service costs, and miscellaneous expenses (appraisals, certified copies, etc.).

Court Filing Fees in Bexar County

The Bexar County Probate Court charges filing fees set by state law and local court rules. As of 2026, typical court costs include the application filing fee, citation posting, certified copies of Letters Testamentary, and any additional motions.

You will typically need 5 to 10 certified copies of Letters Testamentary to present to banks, title companies, and other institutions.

Attorney Fees

Attorney fees are usually the largest component of probate costs. In San Antonio, probate attorneys generally charge in one of three ways:

Flat Fee (Most Common for Uncontested Cases)

Many probate attorneys in San Antonio, including our firm, offer flat-fee pricing for uncontested probate matters. This means you pay one set price that covers the consultation, document preparation, court filing, hearing representation, and basic administration guidance.

• Muniment of Title: $2,500–$3,500
• Independent Administration: $3,500–$5,500
• Small Estate Affidavit: $1,500–$2,500

Hourly Rate

Some attorneys charge by the hour, typically $200 to $400 per hour in San Antonio. This can make sense for complex or contested estates where the work involved is unpredictable. However, hourly billing creates uncertainty about the final cost.

Percentage of Estate

While common in some states, percentage-based fees are less common in Texas for routine probate. When used, they typically range from 2% to 5% of the estate's value.

Other Costs to Expect

Beyond attorney fees and court costs, budget for: newspaper publication for notice to creditors, property appraisals, certified copies of court orders, recording fees for real property transfers, and potential tax preparation fees.

Why We Use Flat-Fee Pricing

At ProbatesATX, we believe in transparent, predictable pricing. We publish our fees so you know exactly what to expect. There are no hidden costs, no hourly billing surprises, and no percentage-of-estate fees.

Visit our pricing page for current rates, or schedule a free consultation to get a specific quote for your situation.