Since early 2020, as a result of updated procedures due to Covid 19, most Florida court proceedings have been held remotely. This means your attorney can serve you in all jurisdictions in the State of Florida for your probate matter. Most cases can be handled efficiently in a virtual manner. Call us, and we can explain how these new procedures help you.

Shawn C. Newman

What is Formal Administration (or Probate Administration)?

Probate in Florida is the legal process of settling the estate of a deceased individual under the supervision of the Circuit Court, Probate Division in the County where the decedent resided   There are complex issues such as identifying:

       -  Did the Decedent die Testate (with a valid Last Will and Testament) or die Intestate (without a valid Last Will and Testament)?

        -  Who is the proper person to administer the Decedent's Estate?

       -  Who are the proper heirs to receive from the Estate Asset Assets?

       -  What are the valid, enforceable debts that must be paid, and which debts are unenforceable?   

       -  Are there protected assets, such as homestead real property, that creditor claims can not attach?

       -  Has both the Heirs and the Creditors received a valid Notice of the Administration so that the Estate may be settled with certainty?

Formal probate administration is a structured process that balances the rights of the beneficiaries (heirs) and the creditors' rights to claim the Decedent's assets.

How long does a Formal Probate?        

Every estate administration is different, and the issues that need to be resolved are different.   The best answer is that, at a minimum, a Formal Probate Administration will take at least six to eight months, and most likely longer.   We map out the process for you, and let you know the issues so that you are aware of what is happening and what is next. Simplified Probate Administration Process Flow Here

Knowing the next steps to settle their affairs can be overwhelming when someone you love dies.  We are here to guide you through the process and address all of your concerns.   We will explain how Florida estate administration laws apply to your case in a way you can understand.

Give us a call.   We can help.

Law Office of Shawn C. Newman, P.A.
710 Northeast 26th Street
Wilton Manors, FL 33305-1238
Phone: (954) 563-9160

Serving all of the greater Fort Lauderdale area and Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties in Southern Florida.