quote
I had an incredible experience working with this fantastic law firm! They helped me draft my will and trust, so I can leave my estate to my two gorgeous daughters because I want them to have a smooth and worry-free future. During our initial consultation, Jose explained everything in detail ... Read More
Yeshivah Simonson
Wills
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I'm very glad that I trust on this firm. The process of making a will to keep anything in order before something bad happens was very smooth and they're very patient and professional. ... Read More
Diego Bellino
Wills
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
We contacted Attorney Jose Leon for advice on a Power of Attorney vs a will for my mother and he provided sound advice on how we could and should proceed forward. Thanks to his guidance, we were able to know our rights and the best way to move forward in ... Read More
Luis M Latour
Wills
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Samah literally came to my rescue! Days away from my husband having open heart surgery and me pregnant with our fifth child! Sadly, we had never made a will or a plan. Truly grateful for Samah coming to our aid. It gave me such peace knowing there was a plan ... Read More
Katherine Young
Wills
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Samah Abukhodeir was recommended to us in early 2019 by our financial consultant. My husband and I wanted to create a will and other important documents. We were immediately comfortable with Sam personally and with her knowledge and expertise in meeting our needs to put together these papers for us. ... Read More
Joan Vassall
Wills
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
They were a great help with my probate case. From the initial consultation, they provided clear guidance and were incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. Their expertise made everything so much easier to handle. I highly recommend them for any probate matters in Florida. ... Read More
Monserratt Mayorga
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
This team exceeded our expectations in handling our family’s probate case. They were incredibly knowledgeable about inheritance laws and guided us through every step. Their compassion during this difficult time made a world of difference, ensuring we felt supported and understood throughout the process ... Read More
Joel Soto
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
It can be very difficult go through something you have no idea how to manage. But I’m so grateful because I found these amazing people which helped me with my probate case and they handled in the must professional way.Keep up the good work! ... Read More
Jose Velasquez
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I cannot speak highly enough of the exceptional service I received from this law firm regarding probate law. After the passing of a loved one, I needed legal assistance with the estate administration, and they made a complex and emotionally charged process as smooth as possible. Their probate law team ... Read More
Maddy Castro
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I'm located in California and I needed to do a Probate Law case in Florida, I was referred to this office and I'm glad I was, the consultation is over the phone which was so helpful on my situation, the attorney that talk to me during the consultation was so ... Read More
Alicia Carias
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I had my consultation with the attorney Carling Freidzon for a Probate case, the attorney was able to explain how the office works and clarify my doubts regarding the case. I was so happy I found this firm and I decided to hire them. The attorney assigned to my case ... Read More
Joseph Gabriel Coello Gutierrez
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I had the pleasure of meeting with Yudy on behalf of my mom for a free 30-minute consultation regarding some estate administration concerns. From the moment we spoke, it was clear that she is not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly kind and patient. She took the time to listen ... Read More
Kristin Thakkar
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I worked with Samah and her team, to anyone who needs a probate or family law attorney this is it. Lawyers returning my calls & emails promptly is important to me. They’re very organized; I had a consult with Samah and she listened to what I wanted including giving her ... Read More
John Smith
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Loved working with Yudy! She is really on top of her game and gets work done. She’s very responsive and I feel like she works all nonstop lol. Excellent work on my probate case, Yudy. Highly recommend! ... Read More
Neivis Roa
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Samah and her team are very helpful and communicative. They have a very good understanding in probate and estate planning. You can tell everyone on the team is there to help with your problems. If you are looking for a probate attorney in Florida, look no further. They provided me ... Read More
Vance Johnson
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I had an issue with a Probate case, and I had went to another attorney, but they were not helpful. I’m very thankful my cousin referred me to Samah and her team. I immediately got a response and they began work right away. They’ve communicated with me the whole time, ... Read More
Mohamed Abukhdair
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Sam and her team are excellent, highly responsive, and very skilled. I highly recommend them for any family law or probate legal issues. They will walk you through the process and take the stress off your plate. I regularly refer Sam and her firm cases and my referrals are always ... Read More
Thomas Graham
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
As a fellow legal professional, I’ve had the privilege of working with Samah on a matter for a family member. Her dedication to probate law is remarkable and her compassion for clients is truly commendable. She strikes an impressive balance between a keen legal mind and a caring, empathetic heart. ... Read More
Salman Salehjee
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I recently had the privilege of working with The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm for assistance with my father's probate case. From the first consultation, I was immediately impressed by the professionalism and knowledge of the team. They walked me through every step of the process and made sure ... Read More
Adam Khdair
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I cannot express enough how amazing Samah is. As a probate attorney, she is highly skilled and knowledgeable. But what sets her apart is her extraordinary compassion and care. Her genuine empathy made a difficult process much more manageable. She provided a safe space where I felt comfortable sharing my ... Read More
Andres Palau
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I highly recommend Samah and her team to anyone who needs a probate or family law attorney. My experience with them was wonderful from start to finish; they were always great at returning my calls, responding to my emails. They’re very organized; I had a consult with Samah where she ... Read More
Ramie AlTawil
Probate
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
The best law firm ever! Samah is such an incredible attorney. She was there every step of the way to help me with my legal issues. If you’re ever in need of legal assistance, this is the place to go to. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!! ... Read More
Deanna Darwish
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
This law firm is the best in town! Very professional and quite helpful. They're always available, responsive, and on top of every single step. Samah deals with every case diligently and efficiently. Highly recommend this firm. Seriously, no need to look around, they're the best! ... Read More
Hanin Kamal
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I had a fantastic experience with this firm. The team of attorneys was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and attentive to my legal needs. From the initial consultation with attorney Jose to the resolution of my case, they provided excellent guidance and support. ... Read More
Corey Wright
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
We have trusted Florida Probate & Family law with several referrals on complex Trust litigation, Probate and Family law matters and they have always handed each client with excellence, professionalism and respect. We highly recommend their services ... Read More
Robinson Casey
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I had the privilege of working with recently Samah, and I cannot speak highly enough of her exceptional service and expertise. From start to finish my experience with her team was truly outstanding. ... Read More
Kal Kader
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Attorney Valeska Casanova- Chacon is an extraordinary human being and professional. She worked on my case from day one, willing to do what was best for me and my family. She is respectful, answered quick to all my questions and advised me with the best solutions for my case. I ... Read More
Melissa Castaneda
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I recently had the pleasure of working with The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm, and I wanted to share my positive experience. From the moment I contacted them, I was greeted with kindness and professionalism. The whole team was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to understand my specific ... Read More
Anthony Avila
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Highly recommended!! Samah, Jose, and the entire team is fantastic. I have worked with the firm in representing my most valued clients and they have been responsive, effective, and produced great results. Thank you helping my clients feel at ease and making the planning process a breeze! ... Read More
Kristina Wilson
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
The office was exceptional in every way. From calling and getting basic information on procedures , to sending forms in, to actually having the appointment , each step was clearly explained to me and so professional ! Everyone in the office was very kind and so helpful to meeting the ... Read More
Noor Masri
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Attorney Krizia Toledo and the entire team were very professional. They took care of my case and gave me clear guidance. It is not the cheapest option but you are in good hands. ... Read More
Ricardo Abend Van Dalen
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I’ve never had to deal with legal issues and Sam was excellent. Her office is well organized, responsive, and cares. Her paralegal and associates follow up and make sure that you understand how to fill out the initial docs and answer any questions you may have. I spoke to Sam ... Read More
Alaa-Aldeen Abukhdair
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Sam and her team are great. We had a family emergency and they were able to help us after hours and the weekend to ensure everything was taken care of. Another firm would not have accommodated it but we were lucky to find a team that really cared and took ... Read More
Matthew
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Super talented, professional, they know their job. Would never go to anyone only to the Florida Probate & Family Law firm exelent job Thank you so much ... Read More
Irma Haddi
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Sam and her staff are amazing. They are truly transparent throughout the entire process and make you feel valued at all times, from the beginning to the end. I would highly recommend Sam to anyone looking for professionalism and being assisted like family and not like another number in your ... Read More
Victor A.
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
From the beginning I felt welcomed. The intake team scheduled my call and listened carefully. Great staff, very communicative. They always take my phone calls and respond to my emails the same day. If you’re looking for an attorney that cares and is dedicated to helping you, you’ve come to ... Read More
Connie Mei
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Best firm in Miami! So helpful and honest. They really are on their A game! I was referred by my real estate agent and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to bring on Samah and her team. They listened carefully in every meeting we had and helped plan a ... Read More
Leah Valdes
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I wholeheartedly recommend This Law Firm to anyone seeking legal representation. Their commitment to excellence, integrity, and client satisfaction makes them a top-notch law firm that you can trust with your most critical legal matters. ... Read More
Reem Kader
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I recently had the pleasure of speaking to Melissa, who was so kind and professional. She helped answer all my questions and direct me to the correct people. I am so happy with the work that is done at The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm in Coral Gables. ... Read More
Jocelyn Gonzalez
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
If you're searching for quality representation The Florida probates and family Law Firm would be the best choice. Samah would go above and beyond for her clients and is the rare attorney who takes the time to learn all the facts of your case. I couldn't be more grateful for ... Read More
Areej Yousef
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Called for an initial consultation and I spoke with a young lady called Scarleth and she was very attentive and very respectful. She listened to me vent. She was truly a great first impression of this firm. Everything else ran so smooth! ... Read More
Miguel Lumbreras
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I have dealth a couple of times with this law firm and would recommend it highly. Unlike others in the field, they take the time to understand your needs in order to address them professionally and efficiently. ... Read More
Felipe Cuza
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
I had a case that started simple, and became a horrible nightmare. This firm and Ms. Shapiro guided me with a steady hand and compassionate counsel through dark times. I can’t thank them enough. Highly recommend them. ... Read More
Thomas Claiborne
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
This firm handled my trust case efficiently. Their outstanding attention to detail were invaluable. I am very satisfied with the results obtained. ... Read More
Fernando Lainez
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
It was a pleasure working with this firm. Samah is an excellent attorney who is passionate about the work she does. Her fellow attorneys and staff were also extremely helpful through the whole process. The Florida Probate and Family Law Firm is an exceptional firm who truly cares about and ... Read More
Danni Mena
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Samah was so friendly and extremely professional. She was able to precisely answer questions we had and point us in the right direction. I felt confident I was getting the same advice she would have given to a family member of hers. I’d highly recommend her for professional and legal ... Read More
Katie Young
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Let me start off by saying that I have nothing but AMAZING things to say about this law firm!! After firing my previous attorney (which was an absolute disaster), we decided to hire Florida Probate. Best decision ever! Krizia and Brenda listened to our needs, were knowledgeable and have executed ... Read More
Georgette Robaina
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Had a consultation with Samah over the phone. She was so professional and extremely knowledgeable with the law. She guided me on what to do and how to proceed with my case. Her confidence and calmness won me over. She truly cares about her clients and is aggressive for positive ... Read More
Atheer Naif
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
We had a great experience with Samah and her staff. She was very transparent in what the process was going to be and the possible outcome. We are glad everything worked out well in the time that was initially estimated. We consulted with other firms before and they were all ... Read More
Franco Arias
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon
quote
Samah and her team were great. They helped us through a difficult legal matter and my wife was extremely impressed with the entire intake team of Yasmin, Beatriz, and Danielle. The attorneys and paralegals are also wonderful and truly care. Look no further. ... Read More
Ultra Beauty Supply
General
Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon Star Icon

If a person dies without a will (intestate) and the estate must go through probate, Florida law dictates how assets will be distributed. Therefore, understanding intestate succession in South Miami can be important whether you are a personal representative, heir, or simply want to understand what may happen if you pass without a will. An experienced wills attorney can assist in identifying heirs and applying Florida intestacy laws to the probate procedure.

What Is Intestate Succession?

Intestate succession is the rule for distributing an estate when no will, trust, or other estate planning device directs the issuance of a deceased person’s assets. In South Miami, Florida intestacy laws establish priority for distribution, including who will inherit and how much they will receive.

Distributing an intestate estate may lead to lengthy legal processes, high costs, and conflict. Some of the most common concerns and issues include identifying heirs or inheritance by unintended beneficiaries.

Who Inherits from an Intestate Estate?

In South Miami, intestate succession follows a specific order. The surviving spouse will always be the first to inherit, and if there are no living children, the spouse inherits the entire estate. If the deceased has living children, the spouse will inherit one-half of the estate, and the children will inherit the other. Grandchildren may also inherit their parent’s portion if they are deceased.

To inherit, the surviving spouse must have been legally married to the deceased, and the children must be biological or legally adopted by them.

If there is no living spouse or children, the deceased’s parents will inherit, then the deceased’s siblings, and any collateral relatives like aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and so forth.

What If There Are No Living Relatives?

If no living relative can be located, the estate will go through the escheatment process. During escheatment, the state of Florida takes control of the property and sells it. Proceeds from the sale are deposited into the State School Fund.

Intestate Succession and Probate Process

When a person passes without a will, their estate usually goes through the probate process. Probate is opened by filing a petition and providing the Miami-Dade County probate court with the date of the decedent’s death.

The court will then assign a personal representative to manage the estate’s affairs, including notifying creditors, paying any debts and taxes, and valuing the estate. If the deceased died without a will, these duties also include identifying the estate’s beneficiaries according to Florida intestacy laws.

Informal Probate and Intestate Succession in South Miami

Informal probate administration may be an option if the deceased’s estate is valued under $75,000 or if they have been dead for more than two years. The informal probate process is typically much faster and less costly than formal administration.

Disposition without administration is another option. However, this is only available in limited circumstances where there are no probate assets, and the value of any other assets does not exceed the funeral expenses.

A South Miami attorney can explain in-depth how intestate succession applies and what options you have to set up an estate plan that will fulfill your personal wishes.

Contact a South Miami Attorney Today to Discuss Intestate Succession

The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm helps individuals and families understand the implications of intestate succession in South Miami on their loved one’s estate. An attorney can assist you in drafting a will or taking other steps to prevent it from happening upon your death. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm N/a
2600 S Douglas Rd., Suite 502 Coral Gables FL 33134 (305) 384-1540
3105 NW 107th Avenue Suite 400-F6 Doral FL 33172 (786) 827-5321
28 W Flagler St. Suite 910 Miami FL 33130 (786) 550-8753
9130 S. Dadeland Boulevard, Suite 1200 Miami FL 33156 (786) 465-5608
1200 SW 145th Ave., Suite 340 Pembroke Pines FL 33027 (754) 465-9673
620 E Twiggs St. Suite 316 Tampa FL 33602 (813) 491-1055
10100 W Sample Rd., Suite 107 Coral Springs FL 33065 (754) 704-8867
6400 N Andrews Ave., Suite 520 Fort Lauderdale FL 33309 (754) 399-3390
18501 Murdock Cir Suite 101 D Port Charlotte FL 33948 (941) 326-2197