Florida Probate & Trust Administration Attorneys
When someone dies, the surviving family often faces unexpected property transfers, financial accounts, and legal responsibilities. Florida probate law dictates how families must handle these matters before transferring assets to rightful beneficiaries.
At Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A., we assist personal representatives, beneficiaries, and families with probate administration throughout Coral Springs and Broward County. We explain what the law requires and help you understand which steps apply to your circumstances. Our goal is to resolve all legal matters surrounding an estate while protecting your interests throughout the process.
How We Assist with Florida Probate & Trusts
Every estate presents different questions. Some require a relatively straightforward court proceeding, while others involve disputed inheritances or property that heirs cannot transfer without resolving additional legal issues.
Our firm assists clients with the following matters.
Formal Probate Administration
Formal administration serves as the standard court-managed process for settling many Florida estates. The court appoints a personal representative who holds full legal authority to manage the estate. That individual must satisfy all outstanding obligations before transferring remaining assets to beneficiaries.
We help personal representatives understand their duties and fulfill every legal requirement to administer an estate efficiently.
Summary Probate Administration
Some estates qualify for summary administration, a simplified procedure that shortens the settlement process. An estate generally qualifies when its total administrable value remains at or below $75,000, excluding exempt property, or when more than two years have passed since the decedent’s death.
We review the specific circumstances of the estate to determine if it qualifies for summary administration and if this option fits your goals.
Trust Administration
Trust assets usually bypass probate, yet administering a trust still demands strict adherence to legal responsibilities. Trustees must identify and safeguard assets, notify beneficiaries, satisfy outstanding obligations, and distribute property according to the trust terms.
We guide trustees through every step of administration while helping beneficiaries protect their rights whenever legal questions emerge.
Estate Assets, Property Transfers, and Creditor Claims
An estate may include a family home, investment property, bank accounts, or other assets requiring swift legal attention before personal representatives can transfer them. Outstanding creditor claims often create additional complications, particularly for estates that include real estate or valuable property.
We help clients handle creditor claims and resolve legal issues that stall transferring estate assets. We also clarify how Florida law governs estate obligations and protects beneficiary rights during administration.
Florida Probate & Estate Litigation
Families cannot settle every estate without disagreement. Serious disputes often arise when family members question a will’s validity, a beneficiary suspects someone misused estate assets, or a personal representative fails to fulfill their legal duties.
Our attorneys handle estate disputes involving matters such as:
Will contests. A will may be challenged when there are grounds to question whether it was properly executed or whether the person who signed it had testamentary capacity. Claims of undue influence may also arise when someone is suspected of improperly controlling the decisions of a vulnerable person.
Breach of fiduciary duty. Personal representatives and trustees must comply with their legal obligations. When an individual fails to act in the interests of the estate or its beneficiaries, legal action may be necessary to protect the assets involved.
Disputed inheritance rights. Questions about heirship, the interpretation of a will, or the identity of the rightful beneficiaries can delay an estate’s distribution. We help clients understand their legal position and pursue appropriate remedies.
Missing or mismanaged estate assets. Disagreements may arise when property cannot be accounted for or when someone questions how estate funds have been handled. Resolving these matters may require court intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Probate
How long does probate take in Broward County?
The timeline depends on the type of administration and the circumstances of the estate. Summary administration can be completed relatively quickly when the requirements are met and no complications arise. Formal administration often takes several months or longer, particularly when creditor claims, real estate transactions, tax matters, or disputes remain unresolved.
Does every estate have to go through probate in Florida?
No. Certain assets pass directly to a designated beneficiary or surviving joint owner without going through probate. Assets held in a properly structured revocable living trust may also pass outside the probate process. Whether probate is necessary depends on how the deceased person owned their property and which assets are subject to administration.
Who is responsible for handling probate?
A personal representative is generally responsible for administering the estate under the supervision of the probate court. The court appoints the personal representative and issues the legal authority needed to act on behalf of the estate. Florida law generally requires legal representation for formal probate administration, subject to limited exceptions.
Can beneficiaries challenge the way an estate is handled?
Yes. Beneficiaries may have legal grounds to challenge certain actions involving a will, the administration of an estate, or the handling of estate assets. The available remedies depend on the circumstances and the applicable legal requirements. Acting promptly is important because deadlines may apply.
Speak With a Probate Attorney About Your Situation
Probate can become difficult when property cannot be transferred, family members disagree, or the legal requirements are unfamiliar. You do not have to determine the correct procedure on your own.
At Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A., our attorneys provide personal legal guidance to help you understand your options and address the issues affecting your estate. When you contact our firm, you can discuss your circumstances directly with an attorney who can assess your needs and explain the next steps.
Coral Springs Office
9625 W Sample Road, Suite A
(954) 334 1520
Fort Lauderdale Office
2933 W Cypress Creek Road, Suite 201
(954) 334 1520
For additional information about Florida probate procedures, consult the Florida Bar’s Consumer Pamphlet on Probate in Florida.