Madeira Beach Probate Attorney

Probate, Your Family, and You

Navigating the probate process alone can be overwhelming and stressful, especially considering it follows on the heels of a loved one’s death. Hill & Kinsella probate attorneys in Madeira Beach are prepared to assist you in completing this process seamlessly and efficiently.

Contact one of our probate attorneys now to request help.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Probate?

In Florida, a lawyer is always required during probate unless the estate is worth less than $75,000, therefore qualifying it as a “disposition without administration.” These cases are the minority, and most probates do necessitate the presence of a probate attorney.

Still, the presence of a probate lawyer, even in smaller cases, offers a plethora of benefits. Beyond the peace of mind that having a professional who is well-versed in Florida probates brings, probate lawyers can help with:

• Filing the petition to the probate court
• Notifying beneficiaries
• Giving notice to creditors
• Appraising the estate and assets
• Handling unsettled debts or taxes of the decedent
• Transferring property appropriately

With the assistance of Hill & Kinsella, probate doesn’t have to be a dreaded process. We are devoted to helping you maneuver through probate as easily as possible.

Steps to Take to Avoid Probate

Savvy estate planning may be your ticket out of many potential probate situations. During conversations with one of our estate planning attorneys, we can evaluate your assets and alert you to anything that may necessitate probate when given to your heirs.

Generally, probate is only necessary in Florida when the asset is solely under the decedent’s name. Common ways to avoid it are:

• Making a joint bank account so that you are no longer the sole name on the documents
• Having joint tenancy on a house
• Assigning a beneficiary in your accounts to be POD (payable on death), such as your:
  • Bank account
  • Retirement plan
  • Life insurance plan

Still, even when the steps above are taken, probate is common here in Florida. When you encounter probate, our knowledgeable attorneys can offer more pertinent advice and assistance tailored to your situation.

Call us today to connect with a Madeira Beach probate attorney at our firm. (727) 240-2350