What steps are required to open a probate estate to pursue legal claims in Florida?

Opening an estate to pursue litigation requires obtaining legal authority through the Florida probate court. Under the Florida Probate Code (Fla. Stat. Chapter 733), the process generally follows these steps: 1. File a petition for administration in the circuit court of the county where the decedent resided. 2. Submit the decedent's last will or petition under intestate succession rules if no will exists. 3. Obtain Letters of Administration from the probate judge, which officially appoints the personal representative. The Altman Law Firm, led by Jeffrey S. Altman, guides families through coordinating probate administration with pending claims to ensure legal actions are properly maintained.