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Practice area 06

Probate &
trust administration.

Being named personal representative or trustee comes with real legal duties — usually at a time of grief. We guide you through each step so the estate is handled correctly.

Types of administration

Formal administration

The standard Florida probate process, with a court-appointed personal representative, notice to creditors, and court supervision.

Summary administration

A shorter process available for smaller estates or when the person died more than two years ago, if requirements are met.

Trust administration

Helping successor trustees inventory, manage, and distribute trust assets — usually without court involvement.

The process

Main steps in
formal probate.

A general overview. Every estate is different.

  1. 01

    Petition & appointment

    File the will and petition; the court appoints the personal representative.

  2. 02

    Notice to creditors

    Publish notice; creditors generally have a limited window to file claims.

  3. 03

    Inventory & management

    Identify and protect assets, pay valid debts and expenses.

  4. 04

    Distribution & discharge

    Distribute to beneficiaries and close the estate.

Probate FAQ

Does Florida require an attorney for probate?

In most cases, Florida requires a personal representative to be represented by a Florida attorney, except in limited situations.

How long does probate take?

Simple formal administrations often take several months to a year. Disputes, real estate sales, or tax issues can extend the timeline.

How are probate fees determined?

Attorney's fees in Florida probate must be reasonable and may be set by agreement or by statute. We explain the arrangement in writing before starting.