Fort Lauderdale Probate Attorney
Providing Reliable Legal Representation in Florida
When someone passes away, their property, rights in property, and assets are distributed to others through the legal process called “probate.” Probate can occur whether someone has left a will (and therefore has a “testate estate”) or has not left a will (therefore has an “intestate estate”). Our Fort Lauderdale probate attorneys are ready to help you navigate the process.
Contact our Fort Lauderdale probate lawyers to learn how you can probate an estate. Call (954) 764-7273 or get started online today.
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"Please know how much I appreciated your hard work and effort representing me!"Jeff, please know how much I appreciated your hard work and effort representing me! Thank you for putting up with me and for never making me feel inept.- S.H.
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"We cannot adequately express our gratitude for your excellent work in the resolution of this matter."I don't think there is a better way to express how we feel about these attorneys than to show our final message to them: Ryan & Adrian: We cannot adequately express our gratitude for your excellent work in the resolution of this matter. While certainly- MB & KB
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"Would not hesitate to use him in the future."
Took the time to explain to me what was going on with my case in way that made sense. Would not hesitate to use him in the future.
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"Adrian, Thanks, you’re doing a great job and you’re the best and only lawyer that has been ethical and professionally serious about this case."Adrian, Thanks, you’re doing a great job and you’re the best and only lawyer that has been ethical and professionally serious about this case. You have great communication skills as well. Thank you.- L.A.
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"I appreciate all your help with my case and your professionalism"Hi Michele, I appreciate all your help with my case and your professionalism. Jeff and Esther were extremely helpful, especially considering the difficult circumstances.- S.J.
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"Thank you for your time, kindness and help."Mr. Trinkler, Just want to say thank you for your time, kindness and help.- G.W.
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"Michele, Thank you. This speaks to the excellent work Mr. Thomas & yourself have done."Michele, Thank you. This speaks to the excellent work Mr. Thomas & yourself have done.
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"Thank you for all you have done."Hi Ryan, Thank you for all you have done. Truly feeling relief and a release, being free from lawsuit. Just wanted to tell you how much I depended on you, and appreciate all you have done.- E.D.
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What Happens If No One Files to Probate the Estate?
If the probate process is not initiated within the required timeframe, known as the "creditor period," creditors cannot claim any assets from the deceased's estate. For individuals who pass away with assets solely in their name—not in "payable-on-death" accounts—the estate will not be distributed to the heirs.
In Florida, if the estate's value is below a certain threshold, it may qualify for a simplified probate process called summary administration. This applies to assets, excluding real estate, valued at $75,000 or less. Additionally, certain assets like vehicles or specific salary payments may also make an estate eligible for summary administration.
If you're unsure whether your estate qualifies for probate, there's no better first step than consulting with an experienced attorney in Fort Lauderdale. Our legal experts specialize in these matters and can provide the clarity and guidance you need.
The Cost of Probate
As of Jan., you should anticipate about 3% to 7% of the estate’s assets being used in the probate process. Many heirs and beneficiaries are forced to pay this fee.
Avoiding The Probate Process In Fort Lauderdale
To bypass the probate process in Fort Lauderdale, you can arrange your assets and accounts in specific ways that exempt them from probate. Working with an experienced attorney can help clarify which assets qualify for transfer outside of probate.
For example, in real estate transactions, you can avoid probate by transferring ownership to a beneficiary or by using “payable-on-death” bank accounts. Additionally, maintaining “rights of survivorship” on properties can also prevent probate, provided the correct deeds are utilized. Another effective strategy is to establish a living trust, which allows for direct asset transfer upon death, avoiding probate altogether.
Why Choose Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A.?
At Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A., we have proudly served clients across Florida since 2002 as a boutique law firm specializing in estate, trust, and probate matters.
Our dedicated team is known for providing ethical and efficient legal representation, always prioritizing our client's needs. We have successfully represented thousands of clients in estate-related disputes, whether contesting a will or preparing for probate litigation.
We pride ourselves on being aggressive and confident advocates in the courtroom, committed to fighting for our client's rights. While we strive to negotiate fair resolutions whenever possible, we understand that litigation may be necessary to protect your inheritance and preserve your family’s interests.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a Fort Lauderdale probate attorney of our firm to guide you (954) 764-7273 through the process in Florida!