Losing a loved one is hard enough. When you’re facing the Florida probate process, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Panther Law helps Zephyrhills and Pasco County families navigate probate, so you can focus on what matters most—healing and honoring your loved one’s wishes.
What Is Probate in Florida?
Probate is the legal process for settling someone’s estate after death. That means:
- Identifying and gathering the person’s assets
- Paying their debts and taxes
- Distributing what’s left to heirs
This includes proving a will is valid (if there is one) or following Florida’s intestacy laws if not.
Florida has two main types of probate:
- Formal Administration: For most estates, especially those over $75,000 or with complications.
- Summary Administration: A quicker option for smaller estates (under $75,000) or when the person died more than two years ago.
No matter the type, the process can feel daunting—but you don’t have to do it alone.
Why You Need a Probate Attorney
In almost all formal probate cases in Florida, state law requires the personal representative (executor) to have an attorney. That’s because the probate process involves:
- Filing court petitions
- Notifying beneficiaries and creditors
- Inventorying assets
- Responding to court and judge requests
- Managing deadlines and legal notices
A probate lawyer ensures everything is filed correctly, deadlines are met, and the personal representative is protected from costly mistakes—or even personal liability.
The Probate Timeline: What to Expect
A typical Pasco County probate goes like this:
- File the will and a petition to open probate in court
- Get you or another appropriate person appointed as Personal Representative
- Notify beneficiaries and creditors
- Manage creditor claims and arrange any asset sales if needed
- Distribute assets and close the estate
How long does it take?
Most uncomplicated cases: about 4–6 months. More complex estates, family disputes, or creditor claims can add time—but Panther Law’s experience and local knowledge help keep things on track.
Common Probate Challenges (and How We Help)
Probate isn’t just paperwork. It can involve:
- Family conflicts over assets or wishes
- Difficulty locating all assets (especially in multiple states)
- Handling out-of-state personal representatives unfamiliar with Florida’s unique rules
- Navigating Florida homestead protections and property transfers
- Managing creditor claims and making sure nothing is missed
Missing a deadline or notice can delay probate or even create personal liability for the executor. Panther Law helps you avoid these risks, protects the estate’s value, and gives you peace of mind.
Local Guidance: Pasco, Hillsborough, and Tampa Areas
We’re familiar with the probate courts in Dade City, New Port Richey, and Hillsborough County (for Tampa cases). Our firm has deep experience with local judges, staff, and Florida-specific issues like homestead property and creditor protections. Whether you need “Florida probate help” or “estate administration in Pasco County,” we’re here for your family.
Related Probate services
FAQs: Probate in Florida
How does probate work in Florida?
Probate is the court-supervised process for settling a deceased person’s affairs, from validating the will to distributing assets.
How long does probate take in Florida?
Uncomplicated cases can close in about 4–6 months; complicated estates can take longer.
Do I need a lawyer for probate in Florida?
Yes—in almost all formal probate cases, the personal representative is required by law to have legal counsel.
What is probate court in Florida?
Probate court is the division of county court that handles estate matters, will validation, and appoints personal representatives.
You Don’t Have to Face Probate Alone—We Can Help
Whether you’re newly appointed as a personal representative or you’re unsure where to start, Panther Law is here to help. Contact us for a consultation—we’ll explain your next steps, manage the court process, and help settle your loved one’s estate with care and efficiency.
