Republican Sarah R. Duff is the only candidate listed for Collin County probate judge in the state’s certified Nov. 3, 2026, ballot. The county’s court directory identifies her as the current Probate Court No. 1 judge.
Background
Commissioners Court appointed Duff in January 2024 to succeed retiring Judge Weldon Copeland, with service beginning in February, according to the county’s appointment announcement.
That appointment initially lasted until the November 2024 election was canvassed; it was not an appointment for the entire period through 2026. The 2026 contest is for the next term.
The county says Duff earned her law degree at Texas Tech University in 2007, practiced in probate and guardianship matters and became the probate court’s associate judge for the mental health docket in 2018.
What the office does
The probate court deals with estates, guardianships and other matters assigned under Texas law. Its work can affect families administering a deceased relative’s estate and people involved in guardianship proceedings.
The judge applies legal requirements and manages cases. The office is separate from Commissioners Court, which handles county governance and budget decisions.
Campaign information
No detailed new policy proposal, implementation schedule or funding request was verified in the materials reviewed. This profile therefore focuses on the office, Duff’s current role and her documented experience.
Sources include the certified ballot, Collin County’s court directory and its appointment announcement.
The Prosper-Celina Journal did not receive a direct questionnaire response from the candidate and does not endorse candidates.
