Owning property in Florida while living in another state feels like a dream for many families. That is, until the estate planning side of things comes into the picture. When an out-of-state property owner passes away, Florida may require a separate legal process...
Serving Northwest Florida Families For More Than 25 Years
Probate Administration
How the Florida probate process is officially started
A death in the family brings an immediate sense of loss and a long list of logistical challenges. During this difficult time, you may feel overwhelmed by the legal requirements of settling your loved one's affairs while you are still grieving. It is natural to worry...
What documents should families gather for probate
Most estates go through probate in Florida, even when some assets skip this legal process. Gathering the right paperwork after losing a loved one helps make a difficult time less overwhelming. Having the following documents ready lets you handle probate more smoothly,...
Who oversees probate matters?
After someone dies, the people left behind have many questions about the process ahead. They may wonder about the contents of an individual's will. They may question whether they have any right to receive property from an estate. They may also worry about who has the...
3 common financial mistakes made during estate administration
Many people who are selected to act as personal representatives or who volunteer for this role have no experience with estate administration. They simply tackle every issue as it arises and hope for the best. That approach may be accessible, but it isn't necessarily...
What happens when someone who passes away owns property in two different states?
When someone dies in one state but owns property in another, handling their assets can become complicated. Each state will have different laws, and not only will probate need to occur in their home state, but their out-of-state assets may need to go through a process...
Probate: The difference between heirs and beneficiaries
Estate administration is a complicated process. Both the personal representative or executor overseeing the process and the people expecting to inherit from the estate may have questions about their rights and the law. There is a substantial amount of jargon related...
What are siblings owed if a parent has no will?
When a parent passes away without a will in place, their estate is distributed according to a particular state’s intestacy laws rather than that parent’s personal wishes. This can create uncertainty and stress for siblings who may not immediately understand what they...
AI can be helpful – to a point – during estate administration
Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are increasingly being used to streamline tasks like organizing documents, locating beneficiaries and managing timelines. While AI can certainly offer personal representatives and estate administrators potentially valuable support...
3 crucial steps after inheriting a home in Florida
Inheriting a home in Florida can be a complex experience. Whether you are planning to keep the property or sell it, there are crucial steps you should take to ensure a smooth transition. Understanding the legal and financial implications is essential to make informed...

