Florida Probate & Estate Administration
Navigating the loss of a loved one is a profound challenge. At Marissa Petillo Law, we provide the steady, informed guidance families in Orange and Lake Counties need to resolve estate matters, ensuring full compliance with the Florida Probate Code while minimizing family stress.
The Florida Probate Process
Probate is the court-supervised legal process mandated by Florida Statutes Chapters 731–735 to transition assets from a decedent to their beneficiaries. Depending on the estate, probate can range from a straightforward matter resolved in a few months to a complex, protracted court process involving significant time, stress, and expense. Having a firm that understands the nuances of Florida law is essential to protect the estate and navigate these complexities confidently.
Key Statutory Obligations We Manage
- Mandatory Filing: Per Florida Statute 732.901, the original Will must be filed with the Clerk of Court within 10 days of the death.
- Fiduciary Duties: Under Florida Statute 733.602, a Personal Representative acts as a fiduciary. We provide the counsel necessary to ensure your actions meet the high standards of care required by law.
- Creditor Management: We oversee the publication and service of the Notice to Creditors as required by Florida Statute 733.2121.
Types of Probate Administration
Formal Administration
This is the comprehensive process for larger estates. It provides the full legal framework needed to manage complex assets or resolve disputes among beneficiaries in accordance with state law.
Summary Administration
For estates that meet specific statutory criteria—such as those valued under $75,000 or cases where the decedent has been deceased for more than two years—we utilize this streamlined process to settle the estate efficiently.
Navigating Probate with Confidence
Gain Access to the Estate Sooner
We expedite the required court filings and administrative steps, helping you gain legal access to individual bank accounts, land, or stocks as promptly as the law allows.
Minimize & Prevent Family Conflict
Managing asset distribution during a time of grief can create friction. Acting as your legal advocate, we ensure transparent compliance with the Will or state law to prevent costly disputes.
Probate Readiness Checklist
Certified Death Certificate
Obtain multiple original copies from the state.
Original Will & Testament
Include any existing Codicils or formal amendments.
Beneficiary List
Names, current addresses, and legal relationships.
Initial Asset Inventory
Property deeds and account statements.