The Law Office of Michael T. Heider, P.A. A Wills, Trusts, Estate And Elder Issues Practice

Call Today For A Free Initial Phone Consult: 727-235-6005

The Law Office of Michael T. Heider, P.A. A Wills, Trusts, Estate And Elder Issues Practice
727-235-6005

Quality Florida Probate Services are our priority.

Trusted Florida Probate Lawyer – Michael T. Heider, P.A.

Navigating probate can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. With 15+ years of experience in Florida probate law, our team provides personalized, client-focused legal services to guide you through every step of the process.

How Probate Works in Florida?

Probate is the legal process of transferring a deceased person’s assets to their rightful beneficiaries. This applies to assets that either:

Probate Attorney Florida Probate Law
  • Pass under a last will and testament
  • Are distributed under Florida’s intestate laws (if there is no will)

A court-appointed personal representative manages the estate, ensuring all debts are paid and assets are distributed properly.

Types of Probate in Florida

  • Formal Administration – Required when an estate is worth more than $75,000 or if the deceased passed away less than two years ago. A personal representative is appointed to handle estate matters, including asset distribution and creditor payments.
  • Summary Administration – A simplified process for estates valued under $75,000 or when the deceased has been gone more than two years. Beneficiaries can claim assets through a court petition without appointing a personal representative.

With a Will vs. Without a Will

  • Testate Probate – If a valid will exists, assets are distributed according to the deceased’s wishes under court supervision.
  • Intestate Probate – If there is no will, Florida’s intestacy laws determine how assets are divided among heirs.

What Happens If There Is No Will?

If a person dies without a will, Florida law dictates who inherits the estate:

  • The spouse and children are first in line.
  • If there are children from a previous relationship, the spouse’s share may be affected.
  • If no spouse or children exist, parents, siblings, or other relatives inherit.

If no heirs exist, the estate is transferred to the State of Florida. To avoid this and ensure your wishes are honored, our team can help you create an estate plan that safeguards your assets.

Is Probate Required?

Probate is necessary when a deceased person has assets titled solely in their name, including:

  • Bank or investment accounts without designated beneficiaries (POD or ITF)
  • Real estate solely in the decedent’s name
  • A business with no designated successor
  • Life insurance policies without named beneficiaries
  • Any assets that require court documents for transfer

If you’re unsure whether probate is required, we can review your situation and provide clear guidance.

Why Choose Michael T. Heider, P.A.?

  • 15+ years of probate & estate planning experience
  • Certified CPA & attorney for comprehensive legal solutions
  • Expertise in probate, Medicaid, elder law, and estate planning
  • Affordable services with transparent fee estimates
  • Personalized guidance through every step of the process

We simplify probate, ensuring efficient estate administration while minimizing legal complications and costs.

Beyond Probate – Comprehensive Legal Services

Michael T. Heider, P.A. offers legal counseling in estate planning, probate, trust administration, tax planning, asset protection, and guardianship. Our services include:

Get a Free Consultation with Florida Probate Lawyer

We understand that probate matters can be time-sensitive and emotionally challenging. That’s why Michael T. Heider, P.A. offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

📞 Call today at 727-235-6005 for a free, no-obligation phone consultation with trusted Florida probate lawyer Michael T. Heider, P.A. You can also schedule an appointment online.