Probate

After the death of a loved one, his or her estate often needs to go through the court-managed process called “Probate.”  During probate, the assets of the deceased are gathered and distributed to the appropriate persons, entities, charities, or creditors.  Due to the Florida probate statutes and regulations, the probate process takes quite a bit of time to complete.  Based on the facts of your situation, the process could take a few weeks to well over a year.

We represent personal representatives (also known as “executors”) of the estate, beneficiaries of the estate (spouses, children, or other “heirs”), and creditors of the estate (those who have a financial claim against the estate) in probate courts throughout Florida.

If your loved one properly drafted a trust during their lifetime, they may have properly avoided the need to go through the probate process.  The successor trustee of the decedent’s trust would distribute the trust assets as spelled out in the trust.  The amount of time required to properly distribute the assets from a trust varies depending on the complexity and size of the trust estate.

The time frames to act in a timely manner are limited.  Failure to timely act may restrict your interest or claim to the estate.  Contacting an attorney as soon as possible after the death of a loved one can ensure you are able to properly administer the estate or assert a proper claim to an estate.

Our firm is committed to assisting our clients go through this proceed as efficiently as possible.  We have helped hundreds of clients with their probate or trust administration and would be honored to guide you and your family through the process with sensitivity and compassion.