Why Would Someone Need a Probate Lawyer in Florida? 

Probate is notoriously challenging, and many people go to great lengths to avoid the process altogether. However, most estates in Florida are required to pass through probate. This means that loved ones are expected to navigate this complex legal process while also trying to grieve and come to terms with their loss. Working with a probate lawyer is the best way to avoid costly mistakes, ensure your rights are protected, and protect your family member's legacy.

The Difference Between an Estate Planning Lawyer and a Probate Lawyer 

Estate planning attorneys help people with their end-of-life planning, which can include wills, trusts, and advance directives. Probate attorneys, on the other hand, assist clients during the administration of a loved one's estate, which occurs after death. Both types of attorneys provide valuable services in a similar field of practice, but the tasks they perform are vastly different.

If you are the executor or administrator of an estate, or if your loved one recently passed away and you are an heir or beneficiary, you will want to contact a probate lawyer, not an estate planning lawyer.

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

Probate lawyers help estate executors, administrators, heirs, or beneficiaries navigate the probate process. For context, here is a brief overview of what these terms mean:

• Estate executor – the person named in the deceased's will to manage their estate during probate
• Estate administrator – the person appointed by the probate court to manage the deceased's estate
• Heir – someone who inherits assets when the deceased person did not have a will
• Beneficiary – someone who is named in the will as the recipient of chosen assets

A probate attorney can help executors and administrators complete their list of duties as they settle the estate, including submitting the will to the probate court, completing a property inventory, valuating assets, paying debts, filing taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries or heirs. Probate attorneys can also assist with disputes and will challenges.

How Florida Probate Lawyers Help During Estate Administration

Florida has a unique probate process with numerous laws and special circumstances to consider, including homestead property exemptions, enhanced life estate deeds, and intestate succession. 

For help with these and other probate issues, contact TCB Legacy Law in Hollywood, Florida. We can help you determine which type of estate administration is appropriate for the deceased's estate and guide you step-by-step through the probate process to help you comply with state laws and court requirements. If you are an heir or beneficiary, we can represent you in disputes and ensure that the administration of your loved one's estate is handled appropriately. 

Schedule your consultation today by contacting our office at 954-302-8989 or through our website at https://www.tcblegacy.com/contact-us.