Showing 1–10 of 27 articles in Probate
Reset filtersProbate•Oct 15, 2025•By Cynthia I. Waisman
When a loved one passes away, you may wonder if probate applies to every estate. In Florida, the size of the estate decides whether probate can be shortened or avoided. For smaller estates, the law gives families faster and simpler options that save time and reduce stress. Florida’s simplified probate process Florida uses a process…
Probate•Jul 10, 2025•By Cynthia I. Waisman
Probate oversees the distribution of a deceased person’s assets according to their will or Florida’s laws if there’s no will. But what happens if a beneficiary dies while probate is still in progress? This situation can complicate things, but understanding the next steps can help reduce confusion during a challenging time. How does Florida law…
Probate•Apr 15, 2025•By Cynthia I. Waisman
Summary administration simplifies the probate process in Florida. It helps families manage estates faster and with fewer steps. If you need to handle a probate case, understanding how summary administration works can save you time and effort. When can you use summary administration? Florida allows summary administration if the decedent has been dead for more…
Probate•Mar 12, 2025•By Cynthia I. Waisman
When a person passes away, their estate typically goes through probate. This procedure ensures that the assets they leave behind go to the right people and that their debts are settled properly. A crucial part of this process is the creation of probate inventory – a detailed list of their properties. The personal representative, also…
Probate•Jan 20, 2025•By Cynthia I. Waisman
Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience. While death is a universal life event, navigating its aftermath is never easy. Some people may be able to process their grief and handle legal matters quickly. Others need more time to cope with their loss. Regardless of how you’re dealing with the passing, it’s important…
Probate•Aug 8, 2024•By Cynthia I. Waisman
Going through probate when a loved one passes away is a daunting process. Verifying and valuing property in a complex estate while you grieve can feel overwhelming. Florida’s probate process requires accuracy and knowledge to avoid unnecessary costs and delays. Knowing which assets are exempt from probate can make the experience less complicated. Probate assets…
Probate•Apr 9, 2024•By Cynthia I. Waisman
When creating an estate plan, you need to consider the execution of these documents. This means considering the pitfalls and potential legal problems the administration of your estate could present. Even if you include language regarding your beneficiaries contesting your will, this does not always mean your will is protected against any challenges. In fact,…
Probate•Mar 27, 2024•By Cynthia I. Waisman
Probate inventory stands as a pivotal document in the probate process within Florida. It delineates the comprehensive record of assets held by the deceased individual at the time of their passing. It serves as the official declaration for the court and pertinent stakeholders. It ensures transparency and fairness throughout the probate proceedings, but what needs…
Probate•Feb 9, 2024•By Cynthia I. Waisman
Planning for future health care needs involves understanding the role of a “health care surrogate.” In Florida, a health care surrogate is a designated individual entrusted to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. It is categorized under advance directives and ensures your health care preferences are respected even when you cannot…
Probate•Jan 5, 2024•By Cynthia I. Waisman
If you are the personal representative of a Florida estate, one of your duties is to file an inventory of the estate with the court. This inventory is a list of all the assets that belong to the probate estate. But, what exactly should you include in the inventory? And, how do you determine the…