Rule 792.Time to File Abstract

Last verified June 28, 2026

In one sentenceRule 792 gives a party thirty days after the demand to file its abstract of title, or longer for good cause, and lets the court bar that party from offering written instruments of title at trial if it defaults.

Full Text of Rule 792

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Such abstract of title shall be filed with the papers of the cause that within thirty days after the service of the notice, or within such further time that the court on good cause shown may grant; and in default thereof, the court may, after notice and hearing prior to the beginning of trial, order that no written instruments which are evidence of the claim or title of such opposite party be given on trial.

End

Plain-English Summary

Rule 792 puts teeth in the demand. The party served has thirty days to file its abstract, with more time available for good cause. Miss the deadline, and after notice and a hearing before trial the court may order that the defaulting party's written instruments of title be kept out of evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a party have to file an abstract of title in Texas?

Thirty days after the demand, or longer if the court grants more time for good cause (Rule 792).

Can the thirty-day deadline be extended?

Yes. Rule 792 lets the court grant more time for good cause shown.

What must happen before the court bars a party's title evidence for missing the deadline?

Notice and a hearing before trial begins. Rule 792 requires both before the court may exclude the defaulting party's written instruments of title.

Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 792), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov). Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. · Official source

Also known as: deadline to file abstract of titlethirty day filing deadline abstractextension for good cause abstractexcluding title evidence for defaultTRCP 792