Welcome,
Probate Court 1 is a service-first, technology-forward court ensuring swift and accessible justice for all. Probate Courts are highly specialized courts helping people when a loved one has died or becomes disabled. The state of Texas has only 19 probate courts in 10 of its largest counties, with four located in Harris County. In addition to being one of these specialized courts, Probate Court 1 is also among the most technologically advanced courts in the state offering remote, in-person, and hybrid hearings and trials.
People come to probate courts at their most vulnerable to help carry out a deceased loved one's final wishes or to assist another who is challenged by intellectual disabilities or incapacity, such as Alzheimer's. Probate courts also provide justice in cases of wrongful death, traumatic injuries resulting in guardianships, and when executors, administrators, trustees, or guardians are accused of wrongdoing.
Because death is inescapable and disability is indiscriminate, probate courts serve the entire range of our community making compassion one of the most important traits of the court staff and judge. I hope you'll find that our staff members are as experienced and knowledgeable as they are compassionate and helpful.
We look forward to serving you,
Judge Jerry W. Simoneaux, Jr.
Presiding Judge, Probate Court 1
Assistant State Presiding Judge of the Statutory Probate Courts