Bill > SB302

This bill modifies Texas law regarding the financial responsibilities when a statutory probate court judge is assigned to hear a contested matter. Specifically, the bill establishes that when a party files a motion to have a statutory probate court judge from outside their county hear a contested probate proceeding, the judge shall, to the extent possible, order the estate and/or parties to reimburse the county for the judge's compensation and expenses. The bill requires the assigned judge to equitably apportion these costs among the estate and parties, ensuring that the county does not bear the full financial burden of bringing in an outside judge. Additionally, the bill maintains the existing provision that an assigned judge receives an extra $25 per day for service outside their home county, which will now be potentially reimbursed by the estate or parties. The changes will apply only to motions filed on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, providing clarity and predictability for future probate proceedings.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB302