Helping You And Your Family Through The Probate Process

Losing a loved one is an excruciating experience. You’re already going through the emotional difficulty and the funeral and medical expenses; the last thing you need to worry about is the complexities of Florida’s probate laws.

If you are the executor or administrator of an estate, consider contacting the Riddell Law Group to help you through the process. We can:

• Explain the different types of estate administration and what your duties will be
• Assist with litigation against you or the estate

In addition, we can help administer the estate, which ensures that creditor claims are dealt with according to the probate code and assets are delivered according to the deceased’s will and Florida probate law.

This Is A Difficult Time; Let Us Take Some Of The Stress

Putting an estate through probate is not an easy task. If you are in charge of making sure someone’s last wishes are followed, you deserve respect for taking on these difficult tasks, but you should not be expected to do it alone.

While we cannot erase the pain of losing a loved one, we will do what we can to make this time as easy as possible for you and your family. At our client-focused law firm, our lawyers and staff will address all your questions, create a legal strategy, and give you the advice and representation you need to get through the probate process as efficiently as possible.

Commonly Asked Questions About The Florida Probate Process

We understand that you likely have many questions about the probate process in Florida. Our experienced lawyers at the Riddell Law Group provide answers to some of the most common concerns individuals and families face during this challenging time.

When is probate required in Florida, and what are the main steps in Sarasota County?

Probate is necessary when a deceased person owns assets in their name alone that do not automatically transfer to a beneficiary, such as when assets lack a valid beneficiary designation or transfer-on-death provision. The main steps involve admitting the will to the court, appointing a personal representative, notifying beneficiaries and creditors, paying debts and distributing the remaining assets.

How long does Florida probate typically take, and what factors can delay it?

A summary administration can be completed quickly, but a formal administration usually takes six months to a year. Factors like contested matters, such as a will challenge or disagreements over asset distribution, or dealing with complex assets, can significantly delay the process.

What are the responsibilities of a personal representative under Florida law?

The personal representative is a fiduciary who must act honestly in the best interest of the estate and its beneficiaries. Duties include identifying, valuing and safeguarding all estate assets, giving proper notice, paying valid debts and taxes, and distributing the net estate according to the will or state law.

How are creditor claims handled during a Florida probate?

The personal representative must publish a Notice to Creditors and mail a copy to all known creditors, who then have a limited time to submit their claims. The representative must review each claim and either pay valid and timely claims or file an objection strictly following payment priority under the Florida Probate Code.

Reach Out To Our Firm Today

Our attorneys have experience in not just probate and estate administration, but also in real estate and tax disputes. We understand the complicated financial issues that can arise in these matters. Contact us or call our Sarasota, Venice or Lakewood Ranch office at 941-366-1300 to discuss any probate questions you may have.