Department: Probate Courts
Department Head/Elected Official: Judge Jerry W. Simoneaux, Jr.
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Position
Project ID (if applicable): N/A
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): N/A
MWDBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): N/A
MWDBE Current Participation (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% MWDBE Participation Goal: N/A - Goal not applicable to request
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
title
Request by the Probate Courts for approval of two positions effective June 15, 2024 to staff the newly created Office of Public Probate Administrator.
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Background and Discussion:
Harris County Commissioners Court unanimously approved the creation of this office on April 23, 2025. This office receives some of its funding from the fees collected through probate court filings, as outlined in sections 133.151 and 135.103 of the Texas Government Code, and from commissions permitted under section 455.003 of the Texas Estates Code. Should there be a need for extra funds, they will be sourced from the Probate Courts Fund 2161 until the conclusion of the fiscal year 2025. The Probate Courts do not intend to request additional funds from the General Fund. In the fiscal year 2026, the operations of this office will be reviewed to decide if it should remain in function.
Expected Impact:
The Public Probate Administrator's Office will play a crucial role in closing the access-to-justice gap in Harris County by safeguarding the assets of the deceased when there is no appointed executor and no known or willing next of kin is available to serve. The office is empowered to swiftly secure the decedent's property to prevent any potential losses, damages, or unauthorized use, and to guarantee that the rightful heirs receive their due inheritance.
This initiative will also protect the interests of creditors by ensuring that outstanding debts are settled in accordance with legal requirements.
Additionally, if needed, the Pro...
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