San Antonio Wills & Probate
San Antonio Wills Preparation

Protecting Your Family’s Future Starts with a Plan.

Simple, effective, and legally sound wills drafted by a San Antonio attorney with over 20 years of legal experience.

Individual Wills Starting at $300  ·  Texas Estates Code Compliant
Why It Matters

What Happens Without a Will in Texas?

Without a Will

Dying intestate in Texas means the state decides who receives your home, your savings, and your car. It often leads to expensive, multi-year proceedings in Bexar County probate court — and a judge who doesn’t know your family makes decisions that affect them for life.

With a Properly Drafted Will

A Texas-compliant will that requests Independent Administration allows your executor to settle your estate with minimal court supervision — saving your family months of waiting and thousands in legal fees. This is the “secret sauce” of Texas estate law.

TX

We help families in Beacon Hill, Midtown, and Near North Central San Antonio avoid the stress of Bexar County probate court through proactive planning. A single consultation now protects everyone you love — for decades to come. We also address digital assets: social media accounts, cryptocurrency, and digital photo libraries your family will want to preserve.

The Basic Will Package

Everything You Need — Nothing You Don’t

Ideal for straightforward estates without complex tax or trust needs. Every document drafted personally by your attorney.

1

Last Will & Testament

Names your executor, designates your beneficiaries, and requests Independent Administration so your estate moves swiftly through Texas probate.

2

Guardianship Designation

Critical for parents with minor children. You choose who raises your children — not a judge who has never met your family.

3

Self-Proving Affidavit

A crucial Texas document that prevents your witnesses from ever having to appear in court after you pass. Saves time, saves money, prevents disputes.

4

Directive to Physicians

Your legally binding instructions for end-of-life medical care, ensuring your wishes are honored and removing that burden from your loved ones.

5

Medical & Statutory Power of Attorney

Appoints a trusted person to manage your affairs if you become incapacitated — giving your family clear authority to act on your behalf.

6

Digital Asset Planning

Guidance on protecting and transferring social media accounts, cryptocurrency holdings, and digital photo libraries — a modern necessity often overlooked.

Our Simple Process

From Consultation to Signed Documents

1

Strategy Session

A focused call or meeting to understand your family, your assets, and your goals. No jargon, no pressure.

2

Draft & Review

Your documents are personally drafted and sent to you for a thorough review before anything is final.

3

Formal Signing

We meet to sign and notarize per Texas law requirements — two witnesses over age 14, everything properly executed.

Service Area

Proudly Serving San Antonio & Bexar County

We meet clients in person or virtually throughout San Antonio. Neighborhoods we regularly serve include:

Beacon Hill Midtown Near North Central Alamo Heights Stone Oak Helotes Leon Valley Bexar County Greater San Antonio Metro
Frequently Asked Questions

Questions Your Neighbors Are Asking

Do I really need a lawyer for a will in San Antonio?
While “DIY” online wills are widely available, they frequently fail Texas’ strict signing and execution requirements. A small mistake now can cost your family thousands in contested probate fees at Bexar County court — far more than the cost of getting it right today.
What is “Independent Administration” and why does it matter?
Independent Administration is a unique Texas feature that allows your executor to settle your estate with very little court supervision when specifically requested in your will. It saves your family months of time and can significantly reduce legal costs — it’s one of the most important reasons to work with a Texas-licensed attorney.
I have young children. Is a will enough to protect them?
Your will is the legal document where you name who will raise your children if something happens to you. Without it, a judge who doesn’t know your family will make that decision. We ensure your guardianship wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable.
Is a handwritten (holographic) will legal in Texas?
Yes, but they are strongly discouraged. Handwritten wills are frequently contested, often lead to “Dependent Administration” and commonly fail to address the documents — like a Medical Power of Attorney — that protect you while you’re still living.
What does the Texas Estates Code require for a valid will?
Under the Texas Estates Code, a formal typewritten will must be signed by the testator and witnessed by two credible individuals over age 14 who are present at the same time. We also prepare a Self-Proving Affidavit — which most DIY services omit — eliminating the need for witnesses to testify in court later.
What happens to my social media and cryptocurrency without a plan?
Digital assets are often frozen or permanently lost without proper planning. We provide guidance on documenting and transferring your digital estate — including social media accounts, crypto wallets, and cloud-stored photos — so nothing valuable is left behind.
Get In Touch

Schedule Your Will Consultation

No obligation. No confusing legal jargon. Just a straightforward conversation about protecting your family.

Cortez Defense

Area San Antonio & Bexar County, Texas
Hours Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm
Evening appointments available
Over 20 years of legal experience serving San Antonio families. Texas State Bar licensed. All documents prepared under the Texas Estates Code.

Contact Our Office

Call or email us directly to discuss will preparation, probate concerns, or updating an existing estate plan.

Call Now (210) 733-7575
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