When a family member passes away, managing their final affairs while coping with grief can present a formidable challenge. At The Altman Law Firm, we stand beside residents of Delray Beach, offering grounded legal direction through every stage of probate, trust administration, and estate settlement.
Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
Probate is the legal framework used to validate a will, identify and secure assets, clear outstanding debts, and transfer remaining property to rightful beneficiaries. In Palm Beach County, estate matters follow specific Florida statutes that dictate timelines, required documentation, and court filings. Whether an estate qualifies for a streamlined summary administration or requires formal administration, having knowledgeable counsel helps personal representatives avoid costly errors and fulfill their fiduciary duties with clarity and confidence.
Proper preparation and administration safeguard a family's future and honor a loved one's final wishes. From neighborhoods near Atlantic Avenue to residential communities along the barrier island, families often require assistance interpreting complex trust documents or managing the legal steps of intestate estates where no will exists. Our team helps executors and trustees handle creditor notifications, asset appraisals, and beneficiary communications in strict accordance with Florida law.
When a loved one's passing stems from a tragic accident, the legal process involves more than standard estate settlement. Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, certain legal actions must be initiated by a court-appointed personal representative acting on behalf of the estate and surviving family members. Because The Altman Law Firm maintains a strong background in personal injury advocacy, we are equipped to assist families when estate administration intersects with accidental death claims, keeping all necessary legal proceedings unified under experienced guidance.
A personal representative is appointed by the probate court to manage the deceased person's estate. Duties include gathering assets, notifying known creditors, paying valid claims, and distributing remaining property to beneficiaries according to the will or state law.
Not every estate requires formal administration. Smaller estates or those with specific asset structures may qualify for summary administration, which is a quicker court procedure, or may avoid probate entirely if assets are held in a living trust or have designated beneficiaries.
The duration of probate varies based on the size of the estate, the complexity of its assets, whether creditors present claims, and if any disputes arise among beneficiaries. Some uncomplicated estates resolve in a few months, while contested matters can take significantly longer.
When a person dies intestate, Florida's laws of descent and distribution determine how their assets are allocated among surviving family members, such as a spouse and children, rather than personal instructions left behind.
Contact The Altman Law Firm today to discuss your probate and estate administration needs in Delray Beach with a dedicated professional. Call (305) 373-3730.