What Legal Services Do We Provide at The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm?

Disputes and conflicts involving loved ones are rarely easy to navigate. Whether it is the prospect of divorce or disagreements over inheritance, these issues frequently drive a wedge between people. While the breakdown of a marriage or disputes between relatives is often impossible to stop, the assistance of strong legal counsel can be invaluable in these situations.

The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm can resolve some of these challenging issues on your behalf. You deserve the guidance of a team that understands how important your case is, so reach out today to discuss your case.

Handling the Dissolution of a Marriage with Respect

The most common reason for seeking the support of a family attorney is because of a pending divorce. When a marriage ends, the resulting effort of bringing it to a legal end can be challenging. Some of the issues frequently addressed in these proceedings include the division of marital property, alimony, spousal support, relocation, visitation, or parental timesharing.

There are options for resolving a divorce without drawn-out conflict and litigation. Often, an attorney can rely on tools like mediation to develop an outcome both sides can live with. Our firm often proposes collaborative law to make the process more manageable.

Planning for the Future

The cornerstone of most estate plans is the last will and testament. When a person is concerned about having their final wishes respected following their passing, these documents are a useful tool. Wills allow a person to decide how they want their assets divided upon death. They can also work with other planning tools like trusts to avoid delays or prevent heirs from facing an unbearable tax bill.

In addition to a will, other options and tools may also ensure that a person’s wishes are followed. Trusts are especially helpful, as they allow an individual to place formal ownership of their property in these structures. The result includes avoiding a complex and frustrating probate process that can drag on for years. We also offer guardianship services.

Choosing Between Formal and Summary Probate Administration

There are two probate options for resolving an individual’s debts and assets after their passing in court. Florida law recognizes the formal approach, which has been the usual method used by families for years. For smaller estates, there is also a streamlined option known as summary administration.

The formal approach requires the court to appoint a personal representative to oversee the process. This individual has several roles, including collecting assets and accounting for the deceased’s debts.

Summary administration is different in that it does not require a personal representative. This can greatly reduce the amount of time and money it takes to wrap up the affairs of an estate. It is worth noting that summary administration is only an option when the decedent has passed away more than two years prior or in cases where the estate is worth less than $75,000.

Litigating Disputes Over Trusts and Estates

The unfortunate reality for some people is that dividing the assets of a loved one after their passing can cause trouble. Even when they take the time to create a trust or an estate plan, litigation can drag all interested parties into an unwanted court battle.

Litigation often involves disputes among beneficiaries of a trust or will. It can also result from someone being excluded from the estate who believed they were intended as a beneficiary. Our law firm can litigate trusts and make sure beneficiaries are treated fairly and the wishes of the trust maker are properly carried out.

Talk to Our Law Firm About Your Family or Estate Planning Issue Today

You deserve legal counsel you can trust with these important life decisions. The team at The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm is ready to answer your questions and serve as your representative in these delicate matters. Contact us as soon as possible for a free case evaluation and learn how we can assist in your situation.