Fort Myers Probate & Estate Administration Attorneys

Helping People with Affairs Concerning a Loved One’s Estate Plan

Have you been selected to administer the trust or estate of a late loved one? Serving as a personal administrator or trustee can be a difficult task, especially if you are grieving the loss of a family member. Our estate planning counselors at Dorcey Law Firm are prepared to assist you with your administration duties and can help make the process less stressful. With experience assisting thousands of families, our firm’s knowledgeable Fort Myers probate lawyer is dedicated to our clients’ best interests, understands the Florida probate process, and can walk you through it step by step. We focus on alleviating stress while ensuring every legal obligation is met, offering you peace of mind during this challenging time.

Contact Dorcey Law Firm today for trusted estate administration guidance.

Eligibility for Trust & Estate Administration in Florida

In order to serve as a personal representative, you must be blood-related to the deceased person, referred to as the decedent, or a resident of Florida. Additionally, you must be 18 years or older with no felony convictions. If you are administering an estate in Fort Myers as a resident of another state, our Fort Myers probate lawyer can assist you with our out-of-state representation services. Understanding the intricate legal requirements can be daunting, but our experienced team is equipped to guide you through every step, ensuring compliance and efficiency in estate management.

Dorcey Law Firm also assists beneficiaries who believe that the personal representative of a late loved one’s estate is abusing the position for their own benefit or to withhold inheritance. If this applies to you, our probate professionals can help you through the process of removal or appointment of executors. We prioritize fair and just outcomes, working diligently to protect your rights and the integrity of the estate.

Understanding the Probate Timeline in Fort Myers

The probate process in the state of Florida usually takes 6-9 months under most circumstances—from start to finish. 

This process includes:

• Appointing a personal representative (i.e., the "executor")
• 90 days creditor's period that must run
• Payment of creditor's claims

One important distinction in probate is that the personal representative, once appointed by the probate court upon petition by an attorney, has the ability to manage and sell estate assets. This means that while the probate process can take several months, the estate assets can be sold and managed effectively. 

Once the 90-day creditor's period runs (starting at the date of publication in a newspaper), the estate can generally start to be closed down with the personal representative following a strict process to close the estate. Contact our Fort Myers probate lawyer for further information regarding the length of the probate process. Our team also offers insights on avoiding common pitfalls, ensuring that your experience is as smooth and hassle-free as possible through proactive planning and clear legal guidance.

Navigating Florida Probate Laws

Florida’s probate laws are comprehensive and unique in comparison to other states. They require a precise understanding of both state statutes and local court procedures. The probate court in Florida supervises the distribution of assets, ensuring that the decedent’s will is honored to the fullest extent or that state intestacy laws are correctly applied. At Dorcey Law Firm, PLC, we stay current with any changes in local legislation to provide our clients with accurate and updated legal advice.

We assist our clients in navigating through the complexities of probate, which includes filing petitions, accounting for estate assets, addressing creditor claims, and finalizing any tax obligations. Our familiarity with the probate courts and processes in Fort Myers provides an added advantage in managing your estate matters efficiently and effectively, minimizing delays and unexpected challenges.

Dorcey Law Firm’s Commitment to Client-Centric Services

At Dorcey Law Firm, PLC, our primary focus is on delivering client-centric legal services that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual. We understand that each client is unique, and so should be their estate plan. Our team utilizes our proprietary Auto-Pilot Planning Program to ensure that our clients’ estate plans remain up-to-date with their changing needs and any new laws. This foresight in planning allows our clients to rest assured that their wishes will be carried out efficiently and effectively, even in the face of change.

Ongoing communication is a cornerstone of our service philosophy. We believe in keeping our clients informed and involved throughout the estate administration process, ensuring clarity and confidence with every step. Our approach not only demystifies complex legal procedures but also provides peace of mind, knowing that your estate is in capable hands.