Under Texas law, individuals applying for letters testamentary, letters of administration, determinations of heirship, and guardianships of the person or estate must be represented by a licensed attorney. This rule follows from the requirement that only a licensed attorney may represent the interests of third-party individuals or entities. The only time a pro-se applicant may proceed in court is when they are truly representing only themself.
Going to court to probate a Will is never fun. There are almost certainly scheduling issues, transportation, traffic and parking, as well as finding the courtroom and waiting while the court docket is called. If you are inexperienced all of these add to the stress and frustration of doing your own probate.
Aside from the usual inconveniences, there are technical requirements including pleadings, motions and orders all of which are required to comply with the current law and local rules. Additionally, after the Will is admitted to probate there are requirements to file appropriate inventory and appraisements, notice to creditors as well as approvals.
As of February 12, 2007 the Harris County Probate Courts have institued the Harris County Probate Courts Policy Regarding Pro Se Applicants. A reading of this policy indicates that all Wills probated in the Harris County Probatte Courts are required to be represnted by legal counsel except in circumstances of muniment of title, where the applicant is the only beneficiary and there are no debts against the estate not secured by real property.
For more information on Muniment of Title, see Muniment of Title