When a loved one passes away, managing their estate while grieving can feel like an insurmountable challenge. At The Altman Law Firm, we understand the heavy emotional and legal toll this places on Plantation families. Led by Jeffrey S. Altman, our team offers steady, clear-headed support to help you navigate Florida probate administration, will execution, and estate matters with confidence and care.
Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Reviewed 15 September 2026
Probate is the court-supervised procedure required to legally transfer a deceased person's assets, settle legitimate debts, and distribute remaining property to heirs. In Plantation, these matters fall under Florida's probate framework and are handled through the local court system. Depending on factors like the total value of the estate and how long ago your loved one passed, you might navigate a streamlined summary administration or a formal administration. Our firm helps personal representatives and beneficiaries fulfill their statutory duties efficiently, minimizing friction and avoiding avoidable delays.
While our practice frequently assists families after a loss, we also champion proactive estate planning to protect your family's future. From neighborhoods near Plantation Heritage Park to homes along Broward Boulevard, local residents trust us to help draft enforceable last wills and testaments, establish living trusts, and organize asset management. Setting up clear legal instruments ahead of time can significantly reduce the need for court intervention, sparing your loved ones from unnecessary stress down the road.
Because of our extensive background in personal injury law at The Altman Law Firm, we frequently assist families whose loved ones' passing stemmed from someone else's negligence. Under Florida's Wrongful Death Act, a lawsuit cannot simply be filed by any grieving relative; the probate court must formally appoint a personal representative to bring the claim on behalf of the estate and survivors. Whether an unexpected loss arose from a severe crash on Interstate 595 or another tragic accident, we coordinate the necessary probate estate opening alongside your injury claims while keeping the two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death strictly in mind.
A personal representative is appointed by the court to oversee the estate. Responsibilities include gathering assets, notifying known creditors, paying valid final debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the remaining property to the rightful beneficiaries.
Not necessarily. Certain estates may qualify for summary administration if the assets are limited or if the decedent passed away more than two years ago. Furthermore, assets held in valid living trusts or with designated beneficiaries often pass outside the standard probate process.
The timeline varies widely based on estate complexity, asset types, creditor claims, and whether any disputes arise among beneficiaries. Uncontested summary administrations can resolve relatively quickly, whereas formal administrations involving complex assets generally take much longer.
When a fatal accident occurs due to negligence, Florida law requires the probate court to appoint a personal representative before a wrongful death claim can be officially filed on behalf of the estate and surviving family members.
Contact The Altman Law Firm today to speak with our legal team about your probate, estate planning, or wrongful death administration needs in Plantation. Call (305) 373-3730.