Palm Beach County Probate and Estate Administration Counsel
When a family member passes away, managing their final affairs while processing grief can feel like an impossible burden. At The Altman Law Firm, we recognize that families throughout Palm Beach County require steady, knowledgeable support when facing the complexities of probate and estate administration. Led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, our Miami-based team works diligently to help you honor your loved one's legacy while ensuring full compliance with Florida probate statutes.
Free case reviewCall now
Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
Navigating the Florida Probate Landscape
Probate is the court-supervised procedure required to validate a will, settle valid debts, and transfer remaining assets to rightful beneficiaries. In Palm Beach County, estate matters are processed through the local judicial system, where adherence to strict deadlines and filing protocols is mandatory. Whether an estate qualifies for a streamlined summary administration or requires full formal administration, having clear legal counsel helps personal representatives avoid costly missteps and fulfill their fiduciary duties with confidence.
Connecting Estate Administration with Personal Injury Matters
Because The Altman Law Firm maintains a strong background in personal injury and wrongful death advocacy, we frequently assist families whose loved ones passed away due to another party's negligence. Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, general personal injury claims and wrongful death lawsuits generally must be filed within a strict two-year statute of limitations. Crucially, these legal actions cannot simply be filed by any relative; the probate court must formally appoint a personal representative to act on behalf of the estate. We seamlessly coordinate both the probate establishment and the underlying accident investigation to pursue accountability.
Resolving Disputes and Managing Fiduciary Responsibilities
Serving as an executor or personal representative carries heavy administrative and legal obligations. Disputes frequently arise among beneficiaries regarding asset distribution, or questions may surface concerning the validity of a will due to undue influence or lack of capacity. Our firm assists clients in reviewing estate documents, communicating transparently with creditors, and resolving conflicts efficiently so that families can find closure during a difficult chapter.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary role of a personal representative in Florida?
A personal representative is appointed by the probate court to manage the deceased person's estate. Responsibilities include identifying and gathering assets, notifying creditors, paying valid final debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining property according to the will or Florida law.
Do all estates in Florida have to go through formal probate?
Not every estate requires the full formal probate process. Smaller estates or those where the decedent passed away more than two years ago may qualify for a faster alternative known as summary administration. Furthermore, assets held in living trusts or designated with specific beneficiaries often pass outside of probate entirely.
How long does the probate process typically take?
The duration of probate varies significantly based on the size of the estate, the complexity of the assets, whether creditors present challenges, and if any beneficiaries contest the will. Simple matters may conclude in a few months, whereas contested estates can take considerably longer.
Why is probate necessary when pursuing a wrongful death claim?
Under Florida law, a wrongful death lawsuit must be brought by the personal representative of the deceased person's estate rather than individual family members. Opening an estate through the probate court is a mandatory prerequisite to filing a wrongful death claim and seeking accountability for surviving loved ones.
Contact The Altman Law Firm today to discuss your Palm Beach County probate and estate administration questions with a dedicated legal team. Call (305) 373-3730.