(a) A public probate administrator shall file an application for letters of administration or administration with will annexed as provided by this title:
(1) if gross assets of an estate exceed the maximum amount authorized for a small estate affidavit under Section 205.001;
(2) if the property of the decedent cannot be disposed of using other methods detailed in this chapter; or
(3) at the discretion of the public probate administrator or on order of the statutory probate court judge.
(b) After issuance of letters of administration, the public probate administrator is considered a personal representative under this title and has all of the powers and duties of a personal representative under this title.
Official text of the Texas Estates Code as published by the Texas Legislative Council.