Choosing the Right Attorney to Guide You Through Probate

Experiencing the loss of a cherished loved one is never an easy process; discovering that there are legal complications and probate that can come along with their passing can add to that stress. So how do you choose a probate attorney near you in Florida? The first question you may be asking is “What even is probate?” It is a court-supervised process for identifying and gathering the assets of a deceased person (also known as the decedent), resolving the decedent’s outstanding debts, and distributing the decedent’s remaining assets to their beneficiaries. Choosing the right Florida probate attorney is extremely important because of the complicated process that can come from probate, and having a good attorney can ensure that your loved one’s estate is handled in the most efficient way while adhering to Florida law. How do you find a qualified Florida probate attorney? We have some suggestions you can use to help you choose an experienced and qualified probate attorney in Florida:

• Research several probate attorneys:  Find Florida attorneys who specialize in probate and have experience practicing in Florida. Be sure to check their websites and read reviews from previous clients.
• Check the qualifications of any attorneys you find: Make sure the attorney you are considering is licensed to practice law in Florida and has the necessary qualifications to handle probate matters.
• Do not forget to ask others for referrals: Ask your friends, family, and other professionals for referrals to probate attorneys in your area of Florida.
• Do not hesitate to schedule a consultation: Schedule a consultation with the attorney’s office to discuss the probate process and to determine if they are a good fit for you.
• Consider their communication style and approach: It is very important that you feel comfortable when you sit down to talk with the attorney and staff and that you trust their approach. It is also important to know how they will communicate with you when you are not in a face-to-face meeting.

By using these suggestions and taking the time to find the right attorney, you can be sure that the probate process runs as smoothly as possible, and that the estate is handled efficiently and in accordance with Florida laws. An experienced Florida probate attorney will be sure that any disputes are resolved, that all legal requirements and deadlines are met, and that the legal rights of the beneficiaries and heirs are protected.

As a final overview, a probate attorney will help guide you through the legal process of settling the estate of your deceased loved one, including filing the necessary paperwork, handling any disputes that may arise, and ensuring that the assets of the estate are distributed according to the terms of the will or applicable state laws. He/She can also advise you on tax matters related to the estate and provide legal representation if any issues come up in probate court. Hiring a Florida probate attorney can help ensure that the probate process goes as smoothly as possible and that the final distribution of the estate is done correctly.

Our estate planning law firm takes a very different approach from what you might have come to expect. Our goal is to create lifelong relationships with each of our clients, to guide and manage your legacy for the rest of your life. Please contact our offices in Stuart and in Palm City to learn more.