Best Probate lawyers in Tampa, FL

Top 10 Probate Lawyers in Tampa, FL

(1 - 10 of 44 Results)
Kathryn L. Ritchie
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
American Bar Association Member, Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section State Bar of Michigan Member, Sections on Probate and Estate Planning Taxation The Florida Bar Member, Real Property, Probate, Trust and Tax Sections Tampa Bay Estate
Reviews 0 (0)
Kathryn L. Ritchie
Lawyer
Tampa, FL
Reviews star
American Bar Association Member, Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section State Bar of Michigan Member, Sections on Probate and Estate Planning Taxation The Florida Bar Member, Real Property, Probate, Trust and Tax Sections Tampa Bay Estate
Charles A. Carlson
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County Bar Association The Florida Bar Member, Trial Lawyers Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Sections First Amendment Foundation.
Reviews 0 (0)
Charles A. Carlson
Lawyer
Tampa, FL
Reviews star
Hillsborough County Bar Association The Florida Bar Member, Trial Lawyers Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Sections First Amendment Foundation.
Daniel L. Castillo
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County Bar Association National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Greater Tampa Catholic Lawyers Guild.
Reviews 0 (0)
Daniel L. Castillo
Lawyer
Tampa, FL
Reviews star
Hillsborough County Bar Association National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Greater Tampa Catholic Lawyers Guild.
Benjamin G. Morris
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
Reviews 0 (0)
Lynwood F. Arnold Jr.
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
Reviews 0 (0)
Wallace B. Anderson Jr.
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County Bar Association Past Chairman The Florida Bar Member Tax, Real Property and Trust Law Sections.
Reviews 0 (0)
Wallace B. Anderson Jr.
Lawyer
Tampa, FL
Reviews star
Hillsborough County Bar Association Past Chairman The Florida Bar Member Tax, Real Property and Trust Law Sections.
Rebecca Harrison Steele
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
The Florida Bar Co-Chair, Employee Benefits Committee, Labor and Employment Section American Bar Association Member, Employee Benefits Committee, Labor and Employment Section, 1998-2002 Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers President, 2002.
Reviews 0 (0)
Rebecca Harrison Steele
Lawyer
Tampa, FL
Reviews star
The Florida Bar Co-Chair, Employee Benefits Committee, Labor and Employment Section American Bar Association Member, Employee Benefits Committee, Labor and Employment Section, 1998-2002 Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers President, 2002.
Frederick M. Rothenberg
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
Reviews 0 (0)
Melissa Miller Thalji
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
John Marshall Bar Association Hillsborough Association of Women Lawyers.
Reviews 0 (0)
Melissa Miller Thalji
Lawyer
Tampa, FL
Reviews star
John Marshall Bar Association Hillsborough Association of Women Lawyers.
Eric S. Adams
lawyer
Probate lawyer in Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County Bar Association Member, Board of Directors, Young Lawyers Division Defense Research Institute Florida Defense Lawyers Association.
Reviews 0 (0)
Eric S. Adams
Lawyer
Tampa, FL
Reviews star
Hillsborough County Bar Association Member, Board of Directors, Young Lawyers Division Defense Research Institute Florida Defense Lawyers Association.

What is Probate Law?

Probate law is a legal framework designed to manage the estates of individuals who have passed away. It involves validating a will, distributing assets to beneficiaries, and ensuring that debts are paid. In cases where there is no will, probate law governs the distribution of the deceased\'s assets according to the state\'s intestacy laws. The primary objective of probate is to settle the estate and ensure that the deceased\'s wishes, if specified in a valid will, are fulfilled.

In Tampa, the probate process follows state laws, which can vary slightly depending on local regulations. Therefore, it is crucial for families to understand the legal requirements and seek the assistance of an experienced probate lawyer.

The Probate Process in Florida

The probate process in Florida typically begins when a family member or the executor of the will files a petition with the local court. The court oversees the entire procedure to ensure that the distribution of assets is handled correctly. While specific steps may differ slightly depending on the complexity of the estate, the process generally includes the following stages:

Filing the Will

The first step is to file the will with the probate court. If a valid will exists, it will outline how the deceased wanted their assets distributed. The court will review the will to ensure it complies with legal standards.

Appointing an Executor

The court will appoint an executor or personal representative to manage the estate. This person oversees the probate process, from gathering assets to paying debts and distributing the remaining property.

Inventorying the Assets 

The executor must create a detailed list of the deceased\'s assets, including real estate, personal property, bank accounts, and investments. This inventory helps determine the estate\'s value and what needs to be distributed.

Paying Debts and Taxes

The deceased\'s outstanding debts or taxes must be settled before assets are distributed to beneficiaries. The executor is responsible for identifying and paying all legitimate claims.

Distributing Assets

Once debts and taxes are paid, the remaining assets are distributed according to the terms of the will or, in cases where there is no will, according to state law.

When to Hire a Probate Lawyer in Tampa

While some probate cases can be straightforward, there are many situations where hiring a probate lawyer in Tampa becomes essential. Complicated family dynamics, large estates, or unclear wills can lead to disputes that require legal expertise. Here are some common scenarios where a probate lawyer can help:

 

Common Issues in Probate Cases

Probate can bring up many challenges, especially in more complicated cases. Some of the most common issues include:

Understanding State Probate Laws in Florida

Each state has probate laws, and Florida is no exception. While the probate process may follow similar steps nationwide, specific rules can vary by location. These laws dictate how assets are valued, how long creditors have to file claims, and how the estate is distributed if there is no valid will.

Given the variations in state laws, having a probate lawyer with local expertise is crucial. They can help ensure that the estate is handled correctly according to the regulations in Florida and advise on any specific legal nuances that may arise.