When a family member passes away, managing their final affairs while processing grief can place a heavy burden on your shoulders. At The Altman Law Firm, led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, we provide steady, supportive legal guidance for individuals and families facing probate, estate administration, and post-loss decisions throughout Doral and the surrounding Miami-Dade County communities.
Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
The probate process involves validating a last will and testament, appointing a personal representative, and settling valid financial claims before remaining assets are distributed. Whether your family lives near NW 41st Street or closer to Downtown Doral, dealing with the Miami-Dade court system requires strict adherence to Florida probate statutes. Our team helps clarify whether an estate qualifies for summary administration or requires formal administration, keeping you informed at every turn.
Serving as a personal representative comes with substantial responsibilities, from inventorying financial accounts to notifying creditors within statutory deadlines. Errors or oversights during this phase can lead to delays or personal liability. At The Altman Law Firm, we assist personal representatives in Doral with fulfilling their fiduciary duties transparently and efficiently, helping to reduce stress and prevent disputes among beneficiaries.
Because of our deep background in injury law, we frequently assist families whose loved ones passed away due to another party's negligence. Under Florida's Wrongful Death Act, a formal estate must often be opened so a personal representative can bring a legal claim. Whether handling a standard estate or coordinating a wrongful death investigation involving a collision on the Palmetto Expressway, we manage the legal complexities so your family can focus on healing.
Probate is a court-supervised legal process used to validate a will, pay debts, and distribute a deceased person's property. Not all estates require full probate; smaller estates or assets placed into properly funded living trusts may qualify for simplified procedures under Florida law.
The duration of probate depends heavily on the estate's size, the presence of creditor claims, and whether any interested parties contest the will. Summary administrations may resolve in a few months, while complex formal proceedings can take a year or longer.
A personal representative is appointed by the court to manage the deceased person's estate. Their duties include gathering assets, notifying creditors, paying legitimate debts and applicable taxes, and distributing remaining property to the rightful heirs.
If a loved one's passing resulted from an accident, Florida law generally requires a court-appointed personal representative to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the estate. The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Florida is generally two years from the date of passing.
Contact The Altman Law Firm today to discuss your probate and estate administration questions with a dedicated legal team. Call (305) 373-3730.