Estate Planning & Probate

Florida probate, handled with care.

When a loved one dies owning property in their own name, a Florida probate administration is usually needed to collect assets, pay valid debts, and transfer what remains to the beneficiaries. In Florida, the personal representative generally must be represented by an attorney.

Estate planning and probate consultations are free. Book online or call us at (941) 704-4049.

0
Years combined experience
RPPTL
Real Property, Probate & Trust Law Section
0
Real estate transactions closed
0
Direct attorney access
Probate Administration
Estate Planning & Probate

Probate Administration

When a loved one dies owning property in their own name, a Florida probate administration is usually needed to collect assets, pay valid debts, and transfer what remains to the beneficiaries. In Florida, the personal representative generally must be represented by an attorney.

We guide personal representatives and families through each step: opening the case, publishing notice to creditors, inventorying assets, resolving claims, and distributing the estate. Because so many Florida estates include real estate, we also handle the homestead determinations, deeds, and sales of estate property that move the case to closing.

Further reading: How a Florida lady bird deed avoids probate

Book a Free Consultation
What you get

Probate Administration: what’s included

The scope below is typical for this matter type; exact scope is confirmed at the consultation.

  • Formal administration
  • Summary administration for smaller estates
  • Ancillary administration for out-of-state decedents
  • Petitions to determine homestead
  • Notice to creditors and claim review
  • Sale or transfer of estate real estate
  • Estate closing and final distribution

Good to know

Frequently asked questions
A straightforward formal administration often takes several months to a year. Notice to creditors must be published, and creditors generally have three months from first publication to file claims, so most estates cannot close sooner than that. Disputes, real estate sales, or tax issues can extend the timeline.
Summary administration is a shorter process available when the value of the non-exempt probate estate is $75,000 or less, or when the decedent has been dead for more than two years. It can often be completed faster and at lower cost than formal administration.
Usually, yes. Florida real estate owned by a non-resident in their own name typically requires an ancillary administration in the Florida county where the property is located.
Related services

Related estate planning & probate services

Other matters we handle within this practice area.

Trust Administration

Trust Administration

Helping successor trustees settle a trust correctly.

Learn more
Lady Bird Deeds & Homestead Planning

Lady Bird Deeds & Homestead Planning

Pass your Florida home without probate.

Learn more
Wills

Wills

Florida-compliant wills that say exactly what you mean.

Learn more
Get started

Ready to talk about probate administration?

Estate planning and probate consultations are free. Book online or call us at (941) 704-4049.

1904 Manatee Ave. W., Suite 300, Bradenton, FL
Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET

Request a consultation

No obligation. Replies within one business day.

Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Thank you!

We’ve received your request.