Jupiter, Florida • Nina Smith Law, PLLC

Probate in Jupiter and Throughout Florida

When a person passes away and did not make arrangements for the automatic disposition of their assets - whether through a trust, beneficiary designation, or joint ownership of accounts - probate may be necessary to pass property on to the deceased person's heirs or beneficiaries. Probate may be necessary regardless of whether or not your loved one executed a will.

With a will or without one

  • Probate with a will. A will says who gets what, but it does not avoid probate. The process may include filing the will, identifying beneficiaries, notifying creditors, and distributing assets.
  • Probate without a will. Heirs are identified under Florida law, creditors are notified, valid claims are addressed, and assets are distributed through the court.

What probate administration includes

In the probate process, we submit the person's will (if any) to the court, ask that beneficiaries be determined, notify creditors and address valid claims, and distribute assets. The full process typically takes 6-12 months, though this can vary based on the size and complexity of the estate.

Types of probate

Your probate consultation

If your loved one has passed away and you have questions about probate, call for a consultation. We will be happy to review your situation in a comfortable environment and help you determine whether, and to what extent, probate is necessary.

What to bring to your consultation

  • A copy of the death certificate
  • The original will, if there is one
  • A general list of the person's accounts, property, and debts
  • Names and contact information for family members and beneficiaries

Not every asset goes through probate

Some assets pass outside of probate, such as accounts with a named beneficiary or property held in a funded trust. Nina can help you sort out which assets are part of the probate estate.

Get in Touch

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