Plantation Probate Lawyer: Your Trusted Probate Attorney Plantation for All Your Probate Needs

Choosing the right Plantation Probate Lawyer is the most critical step you can take toward a fast estate settlement after the wrongful death or natural passing of a family member.

As a dedicated Probate Attorney Plantation, I provide the expert legal counsel necessary to navigate the Florida 17th Judicial Circuit Court with precision.

Whether you are searching for an estate administration attorney near me or require a fixed-fee probate lawyer to keep costs predictable, this guide offers the comprehensive estate planning and probate court help you need today.

Navigating the legal requirements after death is never easy, especially when dealing with contested probate litigation, creditor claim disputes, or a formal administration process.

This article serves as your probate checklist, walking you through summary administration eligibility, ancillary probate for out-of-state property, and the filing of original wills in Broward County.

Our goal is to ensure you feel informed and protected, providing asset protection strategies and wealth preservation advice that guards your inheritance rights.

If you have recently lost a loved one and are looking for trusted probate services, understanding the role of a personal representative is essential.

Our law office provides full-service estate representation, ensuring that liquidating estate assets, paying final decedent taxes, and distributing inheritance to heirs are handled without court delays.

From validating a last will and testament to managing intestate succession when no will exists, a top-rated Florida probate attorney becomes your strongest advocate.

By engaging a qualified probate professional early, you can strategically resolve allegations of undue influence and will validity challenges before they escalate.

This guide explains what to expect from the Broward County Clerk of Courts, when to schedule a free probate consultation, and how to secure a strategic estate plan that ensures your family’s future stability.

Understanding the Florida Probate Process and Court Procedures

The legal procedure known as probate is the court-supervised estate settlement that occurs after a decedent’s death to verify a last will and testament, satisfy IRS tax liens, and transfer property title to the rightful beneficiaries.

In the 17th Judicial Circuit of Florida, this process is strictly governed by the Florida Probate Code and the 2026 Florida Probate Rules.

Unless you qualify for non-court asset transfer through disposition of personal property without administration, your case will likely require formal administration or summary administration eligibility review.

Determining Will Validity and Intestacy Rules

When a loved one passes away, the first requirement is to file the original will with the Broward County Clerk of Courts within ten days.

A probate judge will then determine if the document is self-proving or requires an oath of witness to be admitted to probate.

If no will exists, the estate is deemed intestate, and Florida intestacy statutes dictate who inherits assets—typically the surviving spouse, lineal descendants, or heirs at law.

To protect your inheritance rights, a qualified estate lawyer must ensure the petition for administration is filed correctly to avoid court delays.

Role and Liability of the Personal Representative

Upon opening the estate, the court issues Letters of Administration, officially appointing a personal representative (executor).

This fiduciary duty includes marshaling estate assets, opening a restricted depository account, and conducting a diligent search for creditors.

Our law firm provides full-service probate representation to protect the personal representative from liability while they manage real estate appraisals, liquidate brokerage accounts, and handle estate inventory filings.

Managing Creditor Claims and Debt Resolution

A critical phase involves the Notice to Creditors, which must be published in a local newspaper and served on all reasonably ascertainable creditors.

Under Florida Statute 733.702, unknown creditors generally have a 90-day window to file a statement of claim, while secured creditors and the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) have specific priority claim status.

A strategic probate attorney will dispute improper claims and navigate the two-year statute of repose to shield the net estate value from excessive debt obligations.

Final Accounting and Inheritance Distribution

Only after resolving federal estate tax returns, funeral expense reimbursements, and probate litigation disputes can the final accounting be filed.

The probate court then authorizes the distribution of assets to testate beneficiaries or intestate heirs. By hiring the best plantation probate lawyer, families can ensure compliance with Florida law while achieving a fast probate closure and preserving family wealth.

Steps in a Probate Administration

Filing the Probate Petition – Initiates the probate administration process in court.
Appointing the Personal Representative – Either named in the will or appointed by the court.
Notifying Heirs and Creditors – Florida law requires formal notice.
Inventorying the Estate Assets – Includes real property, bank accounts, investments, and personal property.
Paying Debts and Taxes – Resolving claims from creditors and filing federal estate tax forms if applicable.
Distributing Assets to Heirs – According to the will or Florida intestacy law.

Working with a Plantation probate lawyer ensures compliance with probate legal requirements and avoids common pitfalls.

Common Probate Issues in Plantation

Residents of Plantation may face a range of probate issues that require legal intervention. These include:

Will contests or claims of undue influence
Missing or ambiguous estate planning documents
Disputes between heirs over distributions
Real property complications
Issues with other types of property in Florida across the state of Florida

An experienced probate attorney in Plantation can resolve these disputes efficiently.

Probate law in Florida is complex, and hiring a skilled attorney with a law office familiar with Broward County court procedures is critical.

Resolving Disputes and Honoring a Loved One’s Wishes

Losing a family member is a vulnerable time, and unfortunately, it is often when disagreements regarding the deceased person’s estate come to light.

When a brother passed or a parent is no longer here to explain their intent, the will’s instructions must stand as the final word. However, if those instructions are unclear or were influenced improperly, legal intervention becomes necessary to ensure the loved one’s wishes are truly honored.

Navigating Complex Probate Litigation

When family harmony breaks down, probate litigation is the legal path to resolving conflicts.

Whether it is a dispute over the validity of a signature or a disagreement between siblings, having a plantation probate and estate administration lawyer is vital.

Our firm is committed to providing aggressive yet compassionate probate representation for clients who have recently lost someone and find themselves in the middle of a legal battle.

We act on your behalf to ensure the court understands the true intent behind the estate plan.

Coordinating with Financial Institutions and Heirs

Administering an estate often requires sophisticated coordination with various financial institutions to secure accounts and verify balances. This can be a daunting request for a grieving family to handle alone.

As your plantation probate attorney for wills and trusts, we handle the heavy lifting—from communicating with banks in the plantation area and Boca raton to ensuring all heirs receive their fair share.

Our goal is to make the process easy, allowing you to move forward with your life while we secure your inheritance.

Protecting the Integrity of the Estate

If you suspect that a will does not reflect your loved one’s wishes, or if you are a personal representative facing a challenge from other relatives, you need a strategy.

We offer a plantation probate attorney free consultation to help you understand your rights and the potential costs of litigation.

By hiring the best plantation probate lawyer for families, you ensure that the person who passed is respected and that the estate is distributed exactly as they intended.

Why Probate in Broward County is Unique

While Florida law is uniform, the 17th Judicial Circuit has specific local rules that can catch an out-of-area plantation probate lawyer off guard.

For instance, Broward County is known for its rigid requirement of “Smart Forms”—specialized electronic documents that must be used for nearly every petition and inventory filing.

Additionally, judges in Fort Lauderdale often require a Restricted Depository, which essentially freezes estate cash accounts until the court explicitly authorizes a withdrawal.

This adds a layer of protection for heirs but requires a probate lawyer in plantation florida who knows how to navigate these technical hurdles quickly.

Our firm’s proximity to the courthouse in Fort Lauderdale allows us to handle original will filings and emergency petitions with a level of speed and local insight that remote firms simply can’t match.

Whether you need an experienced plantation probate attorney to manage a complex contested matter, our local presence ensures your case is handled according to the 17th Circuit’s specific procedural expectations.

Why Do You Need a Plantation Probate Lawyer?

Hiring a probate attorney is not just about paperwork—it’s about ensuring that every legal requirement is met and every right is protected.

A Plantation probate lawyer provides trusted probate services, from basic estate administration to contested probate litigation.

Whether the complexity of the estate requires court oversight or you simply need help interpreting Florida probate statutes, an experienced probate lawyer can provide clarity and direction during a difficult time.

While some individuals attempt to navigate probate alone, thinking they can manage without legal assistance, even seemingly simple estates can present unexpected challenges.

In some cases, probate alone may work, but speaking with a probate attorney ensures you’re not blindsided by procedural errors, missed deadlines, or costly disputes.

Benefits of Hiring a Probate Attorney

Legal Representation – A probate attorney advocates for you in court and communicates with creditors, heirs, and the probate court.
Compliance with Florida Law – Ensures every step meets the requirements under state law.
Efficient Estate Administration – Helps avoid delays and legal issues that can derail probate.
Peace of Mind – With a knowledgeable Florida probate attorney handling the case, you can focus on your family. A Plantation probate lawyer understands the local court procedures and offers strategic guidance tailored to your situation. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, a Florida probate attorney ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

When to Contact a Probate Lawyer in Plantation

You should contact a Plantation probate lawyer immediately if:

A loved one has passed and you’re named as a personal representative
There is no will and estate assets need to be distributed
You are an heir or beneficiary and suspect fraud or mismanagement
You’re facing creditor claims or probate litigation

A probate lawyer ensures you understand your legal obligations and protects your interests during this sensitive time.

Choosing the Right Law Office for Your Probate Matter

Selecting a law firm with a proven track record in probate matters is essential. Look for:

Experience with the probate court in Broward County
Clear communication and responsiveness
Transparent fee structures
A compassionate yet strategic approach to probate and trust issues

A law firm located in Fort Lauderdale or Plantation with experience in Florida probate law is ideal, especially when dealing with the specific procedures and expectations of Broward County courts.

A Plantation probate lawyer brings local insight and familiarity with court staff, which can streamline the process and reduce unnecessary delays.

Partnering with a Florida probate attorney ensures that your probate matter is handled with the precision, professionalism, and attention to detail it deserves.

What Does a Comprehensive Estate Plan Include?

An effective estate plan in the 17th Judicial Circuit is far more than just a last will and testament.

It is a strategic wealth preservation strategy designed to provide asset protection, maintain family privacy, and ensure your healthcare wishes are followed without court intervention.

As an experienced plantation probate attorney, I help you build a customized legal framework that includes:

Revocable Living Trusts: The gold standard for avoiding probate in Florida, allowing for a private transfer of assets to your heirs.
Durable Power of Attorney: A vital document that grants a trusted agent the authority to manage your financial transactions and legal affairs if you become incapacitated.
Advance Healthcare Directives: Includes a Florida Designation of Health Care Surrogate and a Living Will to outline your end-of-life medical preferences.
Guardianship Nominations: Essential for parents to name a legal guardian for minor children in the event of an unexpected tragedy.
Pour-Over Wills: A “safety net” document used alongside a trust to ensure any unfunded assets are captured and distributed in accordance with your trust’s instructions.
HIPAA Authorizations: Allowing your medical proxy to access your protected health information without HIPAA privacy delays.
Business Succession Planning: Ensuring a smooth transition of business interests for solo practitioners or family-owned companies in the Plantation area.

Key Components of an Effective Estate Plan

A solid estate plan drafted by a probate attorney plantation fl provides a road map for your family during their most difficult moments. A strategic estate plan will address:

Who Inherits Your Assets: Clearly defining beneficiary designations to prevent inheritance disputes and probate litigation.
Incapacity Planning: Establishing pre-need guardian designations to avoid the expense of court-appointed guardianship.
Tax Efficiency: Implementing federal estate tax strategies and gift tax planning to minimize the tax burden on your lineal descendants.
Probate Avoidance: Using Lady Bird deeds, pay-on-death (POD) accounts, and joint ownership with right of survivorship to keep your real estate and bank accounts out of the public court record.
Legacy Preservation: Protecting your inheritance from your beneficiaries’ creditors, lawsuits, or divorce settlements.

How to Create a Valid Will and Trust

Creating a valid will in Florida requires strict compliance with Florida Statute 732.502. This means the document must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by at least two individuals in each other’s presence.

As your plantation probate attorney, I ensure every document is self-proving, which saves your family the legal cost of locating witnesses after you pass.

A living trust, meanwhile, allows you to retitle assets during your lifetime so they pass directly to your beneficiaries without a probate judge‘s oversight.

Working with a plantation probate lawyer ensures your trust funding is handled correctly—because an unfunded trust is often no better than having no trust at all.

The Critical Importance of Estate Planning in Florida

Without a legally sound plan, your decedent affairs will be governed by Florida intestacy law, which follows a statutory formula that may not reflect your loved one’s wishes.

This lack of planning frequently leads to frozen bank accounts, delays in selling real estate, and costly family feuds.

By hiring a probate lawyer in plantation florida, you take control of your legacy.

Whether you are concerned about Medicaid asset protection, special needs trusts, or simply making the probate process easy for your spouse, estate planning is the greatest gift you can leave your family.

How to Handle a Loved One’s Estate After Their Passing?

After the loss of a loved one, the estate must be administered carefully. This involves identifying assets, notifying creditors, and following the probate administration process.

A Plantation probate lawyer can help you navigate the legal process efficiently while ensuring every legal and financial duty is fulfilled.

Role of a Personal Representative in Probate

The personal representative is the individual appointed by the court to administer the estate. Their duties include:

Locating and valuing estate assets
Filing court documents
Communicating with creditors and beneficiaries
Distributing assets

The personal representative must act in the best interests of the estate and can be held liable for errors. Legal guidance is essential.

Dealing with Creditors and Heirs

Part of the probate administration process includes addressing creditor claims and disputes among heirs. Florida law provides timelines for creditors to file claims and for representatives to resolve them.

An experienced probate attorney helps prevent and resolve disputes, ensuring a smooth administration process. A Plantation probate lawyer can assist the personal representative in evaluating the validity of each creditor claim and determining the best course of action under Florida probate rules.

When disagreements arise between beneficiaries or heirs, having a Florida probate attorney by your side ensures the situation is managed with legal precision. These disputes can easily escalate and delay distribution if not handled correctly.

With the support of a trusted estate attorney, families are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the estate without added conflict.

Managing Estate Assets During Probate

Properly managing estate assets includes:

Appraising real property
Maintaining insurance coverage
Securing and protecting valuables
Managing bank and investment accounts

A skilled attorney helps ensure the estate is preserved throughout the probate process.

What to Expect During the Probate Court Process?

Florida’s probate court process includes:

Initial filings and petitions
Notice to interested parties
Hearings to resolve disputes
Final accounting and distribution

Each stage is overseen by a probate judge. A Plantation probate lawyer guides you through each step.

Timeline of a Typical Probate Case

While every probate case is different, most follow a timeline that includes:

Filing the petition (Week 1-2)
Court appointment of personal representative (Week 3-6)
Creditor claims (Month 2-4)
Asset distribution (Month 5-12)

Delays may occur depending on the complexity of the estate or if litigation arises.

Legal Procedures in Florida Probate Court

The probate legal process requires:

Compliance with filing deadlines
Accurate reporting of estate assets
Resolving objections from heirs or creditors
Following orders issued by the probate judge

Hiring a probate attorney ensures legal compliance and efficient case management.

Common Challenges Faced in Probate Court

Challenges often include:

Will contests
Allegations of mismanagement
Disputes over real property
Missing beneficiaries or ambiguous terms in estate planning documents

An experienced team of Florida lawyers can help you overcome these obstacles.

How to Choose the Right Plantation Probate Attorney?

When hiring a probate lawyer, consider:

Experience in probate litigation and estate administration
Knowledge of real estate law and Florida intestacy law
Familiarity with Broward County courts
Reputation as a top-rated or trusted probate attorney

Questions to Ask a Potential Probate Lawyer

How many probate cases have you handled in Broward County?
Do you offer a free consultation?
What services are included in your fee?
How do you approach contested probate matters?
Are you licensed with the Florida Bar?

Evaluating Experience and Expertise

A Florida probate attorney with years of experience in probate and trust administration can provide strategic solutions and help you avoid common probate pitfalls.

Their law practice should include estate planning issues, probate estate administration, and litigation when needed.

Understanding Fees and Services Offered

Fees for probate legal services may include:

Flat rates for uncontested probate administration
Hourly rates for litigation
Itemized billing for probate court filings

Always ask about pricing during your free consultation and understand what services are included.

Summary: Key Takeaways from Your Plantation Probate Lawyer

Probate is the legal process for distributing a person’s estate after death.
A Plantation probate lawyer helps guide families through the Florida probate court system.
Wills, trusts, and other planning documents can help you avoid common probate issues.
A personal representative must follow legal procedures to properly administer the estate.
Hiring a Florida probate attorney ensures compliance, reduces stress, and protects your interests.
If you’re dealing with probate in Plantation, contact us today for a free consultation with a top-rated, experienced probate attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions: Probate in Plantation, FL

How long does the Florida probate process take in 2026?

The probate timeline depends on the type of administration required by the 17th Judicial Circuit:

Summary Administration: For estates valued under $75,000 or cases where the deceased passed more than two years ago, the process easy and can wrap up in one to three months.
Formal Administration: Most Florida probate cases take six to eight months, though complex estates involving real estate sales or IRS tax clearances can extend beyond a year.
Delays: Disputes among beneficiaries or creditor claim litigation can significantly slow the process, often requiring mediation or extended court involvement.

What are the standard attorney fees for probate in Plantation?

In accordance with Florida Statute 733.6171, probate representation fees are often based on a statutory percentage of the estate’s value (typically 3% for the first $1 million). However, at our law office, we also offer:

Flat Fees: For uncontested summary administration.
Hourly Rates: Typically used for probate litigation or complex adversary proceedings.
Extraordinary Services: Additional fees may apply for tax preparation, will contests, or defending the personal representative from liability.

How can I find the best plantation probate lawyer for my family?

When you have recently lost a loved one, selecting the right legal counsel is vital. You should:

Verify Credentials: Use the Florida Bar Directory to find board-certified specialists in Wills, Trusts, and Estates.
Check Directories: Research experienced plantation probate attorneys on Justia, Avvo, or Super Lawyers.
Ask Strategic Questions: Inquire about their track record with your specific estate size, their strategy for minimizing court delays, and how they handle potential tax implications.

Can a current will make the probate process easier?

Yes. Having a valid will that is clearly drafted and regularly reviewed can significantly simplify probate administration. An updated will:

Clarifies the decedent’s intentions regarding asset distribution.
Appoints a personal representative who is ready to act.
Minimizes the risk of will’s instructions being challenged in probate court.
Ensures beneficiary designations are current, which helps avoid intestate succession complications.

What happens if there are disputes between heirs?

If conflicts arise—such as allegations of undue influence or disagreements over lineal descendant shares—the case may move into probate litigation. An experienced plantation probate attorney will act on your behalf to protect your inheritance rights.

While these disputes can slow the asset distribution, proactive legal support can often resolve issues through settlement agreements before they reach a trial.

Where is probate filed for a Plantation resident?

All probate matters for Plantation residents are filed with the Broward County Clerk of Courts and heard at the 17th Judicial Circuit Court in Fort Lauderdale.

Our firm’s proximity to this courthouse allows us to manage emergency petitions and original will filings with the speed required for a fast probate closure.

Contact a Top-Rated Plantation Probate Lawyer Today

If you are searching for a plantation florida probate attorney near me to handle a time-sensitive estate filing, Lorenzo Law is ready to assist.

We understand that navigating the Broward County probate court while grieving is an immense burden. Our firm provides aggressive probate representation and compassionate estate guidance to ensure your inheritance rights are protected and the probate process is made easy.

South Florida Service Areas

As an experienced plantation probate attorney, Jose Lorenzo provides local legal counsel to families throughout Broward County, Miami-Dade County, and Palm Beach County. We are proud to serve clients in:

Broward County: Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Sunrise, Weston, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Coral Springs, and Pompano Beach.
Palm Beach County: Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and West Palm Beach.
Miami-Dade County: Aventura, North Miami, and the surrounding South Florida metro area.

Why Hire Our Plantation Probate Law Firm?

Whether you need to hire a probate professional for a summary administration or require a probate lawyer in plantation florida for contested estate litigation, our office is committed to excellence.

We specialize in liquidating estate assets, resolving creditor disputes, and transferring property titles with a focus on wealth preservation and fast probate closure.

Schedule Your Free Probate Consultation

Don’t face the Florida 17th Judicial Circuit alone. Whether your brother passed without a will or you need to explain a complex trust agreement to the court, we offer a plantation probate attorney free consultation to review your case.

We provide fixed-fee probate options and full-service estate administration tailored to your family’s needs.

plantation probate lawyer

Contact Lorenzo Law, your trusted plantation probate attorney for wills and trusts. Let us handle the legal requirements after death so you can focus on your family.