Practicing in Boca Raton, Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami
Your South Florida Probate Attorneys
The Boca Raton probate attorneys at Haber Legal will guide you through the process of administering a deceased loved one’s estate. The process of probating an estate involves validating the deceased’s will (if one exists), identifying and inventorying the deceased’s assets, appraising the value of these assets, paying any outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful beneficiaries. Haber Legal will ensure that the decedent’s wishes are honored and that the estate is managed according to legal standards.
Discuss your probate matter directly with our Boca Raton lawyers by contacting Haber Legal on our Contact Page or at (855) 729-8252.
Our Probate Law Practice
A person’s estate refers to the total sum of an individual's assets and liabilities at the time of their death. This includes everything the person owned, such as real estate, personal property, financial investments, and even intangible assets like intellectual property. When someone passes away, their estate goes through a legal process called probate, where debts are paid off and the remaining assets are distributed to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries.
In Florida, Statute § 732.402 plays a crucial role by designating certain assets as “exempt property,” which are protected from creditors’ claims. This statute ensures that the surviving spouse or children retain essential property, providing financial stability during the probate process.
Summary Administration or Formal Administration
In Florida, there are two ways of administering an estate depending on the amount of non-exempt assets.
- Summary Administration is a simplified and expedited process available for smaller estates, where the total value of non-exempt assets is less than $75,000, or if the decedent has been deceased for more than two years. This process does not require the appointment of a personal representative, which can make it quicker and less costly. Summary administration involves filing a petition with the court to distribute the assets directly to the beneficiaries, bypassing some of the more detailed steps required in formal administration. This option is ideal for estates with minimal assets and fewer complications.
- Formal Administration is the more comprehensive and lengthy process, typically used when the estate's value exceeds $75,000 or if the decedent has been dead for less than two years. This process involves appointing a personal representative (executor) who is responsible for gathering and managing the estate's assets, paying off debts, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries. Formal administration requires more documentation and court oversight, making it suitable for larger or more complex estates.
Speak with One of Our Probate Attorneys in Florida Today
The death of a loved one can be overwhelming. The attorneys at Haber Legal will handle your loved one’s estate with the utmost care and sensitivity, understanding the emotional weight of this process. We will guide you through each step to help alleviate the burden on you and your family during a challenging time.
Contact our Boca Raton Probate Lawyers at Haber Legal at (855) 729-8252.
Rave Reviews From Happy Clients
We prioritize your experience, and it shows in our reviews. Read through some of our previous clients' own words below, or call us today at (855) 729-8252 to get started.
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“They are the most caring and knowledgeable family law attorneys I know.”- Former Client
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“Haber Legal is the best! They have advised numerous members of our family on a wide array of sensitive issues. Always knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and hardworking.”- Ari B.
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“She is very honest and thorough, explaining in detail the whole process. She held my hand every step of the way and put my kids first.”- Stef S.
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“They are extremely knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced in family law... they show great care and compassion towards her clients. They are always going the extra mile.”- Christina D.
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“They are the most kind, direct and honest attorneys I know. Their combination of professionalism and compassion is extremely rare. I have the utmost respect for them.”- Jared K.
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“Haber Legal is an incredible firm with a hearts of gold! I felt so supported having them as my advocate. They were accessible at all hours of the day, and they were so sincere and genuine.”- Ashley G.
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“My experience was nothing short of excellent. From the moment I walked through their doors, I was greeted with professionalism, empathy, and a level of service that far exceeded my expectations.”- Stuart K.
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“Their legal advice restored my faith in the legal system. They were extremely thorough and made herself available at all times. Extraordinary representation.”- Lori L.