Dealing with the loss of a loved one is undoubtedly difficult, and managing their estate can feel overwhelming while you are grieving. At Altman Law Firm, led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, we provide supportive, clear legal guidance for families in Tamarac and throughout Broward County. Whether you are facing formal administration, summary administration, or a complex will contest, our firm is here to help you navigate Florida probate law with confidence.
Probate is a court-supervised legal process designed to gather a deceased person's assets, pay off any valid debts, and distribute the remaining property to rightful beneficiaries or heirs. In Florida, probate is handled through the circuit court in the county where the decedent resided. For families in Tamarac, this typically involves the Broward County court system. Depending on the size of the estate and whether a valid will exists, the process may range from a streamlined summary administration for smaller estates to a more formal administration for larger or more complex properties.
Estate administration encompasses much more than just distributing property. Personal representatives and executors have fiduciary duties that require careful attention to detail, from notifying creditors to filing final tax returns. Jeffrey S. Altman assists clients in Tamarac with interpreting last wills and testaments, administering living trusts, and managing the day-to-day responsibilities of settling an estate. Our goal is to reduce the administrative burden on grieving families while helping to prevent disputes among beneficiaries.
Unfortunately, disputes often arise during the probate process. Disagreements regarding the validity of a will, claims of undue influence, or ambiguities in trust documents can create friction among family members. Florida law provides specific procedures and timelines, such as the statute of limitations for contesting a will, to resolve these conflicts. When challenges occur, having knowledgeable legal counsel by your side is essential to protect your interests and honor your loved one's true intentions.
Formal administration is typically required for larger estates or those requiring a personal representative to act on behalf of the estate. Summary administration is a faster, simplified process available if the value of the entire estate does not exceed a certain threshold or if the decedent has been deceased for more than two years.
The duration of probate varies depending on the complexity of the estate, the presence of any disputes, and the court's schedule. A summary administration may be completed in a matter of weeks or months, whereas a formal administration often takes several months to a year or more.
While Florida law does allow individuals to represent themselves in certain probate matters, working with an experienced probate attorney is strongly recommended. Estate administration involves strict legal procedures, deadlines, and fiduciary responsibilities that can be challenging to navigate alone.
When someone passes away intestate (without a valid will), Florida's laws of intestacy dictate how their assets are distributed. Generally, the estate passes to close relatives, such as a surviving spouse, children, or parents, according to a strict statutory hierarchy.
Contact Altman Law Firm today to discuss your probate and estate administration questions with an experienced Florida attorney. Call (305) 373-3730.