Probate is a legal process that occurs after someone dies. It involves proving in court that a deceased person’s will is valid, identifying the deceased person’s property and assets, having the property appraised, paying off debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining property as the will (or state law if there’s no will) directs. This process can be complex and overwhelming especially during such an emotional time. That’s where having a Florida attorney by your side can make all the difference.
When you have lost a loved one, you are already dealing with grief and sadness. Having to navigate through probate laws on top of this can add unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation. A Florida local divorce attorney family law expert who specializes in probate law can guide you through this intricate legal process ensuring that everything is handled correctly.
Florida Probate Attorney
Florida has its own specific set of probate laws which may differ from other states’ laws. For instance, unlike many other states, Florida does not allow handwritten or oral wills under any circumstances; only typed or printed ones are considered legally valid. Therefore it becomes essential to hire an attorney who has comprehensive knowledge about these specifics.
The role of a Florida probate attorney begins with determining whether or not probate proceedings are necessary following death. If so, they assist with filing the decedent’s last will and testament with the local circuit court along with any necessary petitions for administration.
Next comes inventorying all assets subject to probate administration – real estate properties, bank accounts, investments etc., followed by notifying creditors about death so they may file claims against estate for payment of outstanding debts if any exist.
Once all claims have been paid off including final expenses like funeral costs or medical bills incurred prior to death but unpaid at time of demise; once taxes have been settled both federal income tax returns & estate tax returns (if applicable), then what remains gets distributed among beneficiaries as per provisions outlined in decedent’s last Will & Testament or according to Florida intestacy laws if there was no will.
A competent Florida attorney also ensures that all legal requirements are met within the stipulated time frames, thus avoiding unnecessary delays in the distribution of assets. They can also provide valuable advice on how to deal with disputes among beneficiaries, should any arise.
In essence, having a Florida attorney by your side during the probate process can ease your burden significantly. They will handle all legal matters efficiently and professionally, leaving you with less stress and more time to focus on healing and remembering your loved one. Probate may be a complex process but it doesn’t have to be an added hardship for you when you’re already dealing with loss – not when you have a skilled Florida attorney guiding you through each step.
The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm
2600 Douglas Road, Coral Gables, FL 33134
305-384-1540
