• Exact Names and aliases:

  The Court requires all pleadings to begin with the exact names as they appear in the Will for the Decedent and Executor, even if the person is now known by another name. The exact name can be followed by the "now known as" name - or any other a/k/a or f/k/a name.

• Alternate Executor:

  If anyone other than the first-named executor in the Will is being appointed, be sure to include the name of the first-named executor and why he/she cannot serve. Be sure to do the same for all other named executors who will not serve but who have priority over the executor(s) who will serve. This information needs to be included in the application and in the findings section of the order.

• Probating Codicils:

  Reference "Codicil" in the title of all document(s) as well as in the body.

General Information

• Q:   Can I talk directly to the Judge?

  Generally all communications with the Judge must be done in open court with all parties present. Please do not attempt to call Judge Kutscher directly or contact him by e-mail or any other method of communication outside of court.

• Q:   Does the Court accept filings?

  The Court does not accept filings. All civil court matters must be submitted electronically pursuant to the State of Texas Supreme Court Mandate ordered December 11, 2012 (Misc. Docket No. 12-9208). Please visit Electronic Filing to access information including the mandate order, the return for correction reasons and other related information. These documents are submitted to the County Clerk's office.

• Q:   What is the dress code for the Court?

  Everyone appearing in court should be attired in an appropriate manner maintaining the dignity of the Court. The Court does not allow the following attire:

  • No hats, caps or other headwear (may be worn but removed before entering the courtroom)
  • No shorts or tank tops
  • No bare mid-drifts
  • No sagging pants
  • No Sunglasses

• Q:   What is the proper courtroom etiquette?

  During an open court session, each individual is given an opportunity to listen to the judge's instructions about his or her case. Talking and other disruptive noises interfere with that interaction. Please refrain from noisy or disruptive behavior and be respectful of all court proceedings. This includes frequent entering and exiting of the courtroom.

  • No cameras, video or audio recording devices are allowed in the courtroom.
  • No food in the courtroom.
  • Cell phones must be placed on silent or off while in the courtroom. No cell phone use will be allowed in the courtroom without the prior permission of the Judge. If you must use, take, or make a telephone call, please step outside of the courtroom.
  • Failure to abide by the foregoing courtroom rules may result in your removal from the courtroom or punishment pursuant to the Texas Government Code.

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Prior To contacting Court Staff

Please Read Prior to Contacting a Court to Schedule a Hearing

• Prior To Contacting Court Staff

  Requirements of all Courts

  The following must be filed prior to scheduling a hearing:

  • Decedent's Estates Original Will (or a copy if the original Will cannot be produced) must be filed with the County Clerk's office in accordance with the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure

  Please note that Court staff can tell you about the services of the Court and can answer questions about how the Court works; however, Court staff cannot give legal advice or answer legal questions. If you need someone to research the law and give you legal advice, you should consult an attorney.