Dependable Counsel on the Probate Process from a Sarasota Probate Administration Attorney

The probate process is difficult and requires a skilled lawyer

Probate is a legal process by which an estate is transferred once a person has died. It is an orderly legal proceeding that validates the will, pays debts and taxes and distributes assets among named heirs. If the deceased passed away without a will, the court decides how the assets should be distributed in accordance with Florida intestate law. At Sarasota County’s Lyons, Beaudry & Harrison, P.A., our skilled probate attorneys guide you through the process and fight aggressively for you in court, if necessary.

The duties of a probate administrator

A probate administrator generally handles the probate process. These individuals are usually the personal representatives named in wills. If the deceased did not leave a will, the court appoints someone for this task as dictated by the Florida Probate Code — usually a relative.

People who are named probate administrators have a number of duties they must fulfill to avoid probate litigation, including:

• Collecting assets. The administrator is responsible for collecting the deceased’s assets and determining their value. If the deceased person owned a lot of artwork or other goods, the items may have to be appraised.
• Paying debts. All the debts left behind by the deceased must be paid. The administrator is responsible for identifying creditors and making sure that the estate pays them while ensuring that all estate and income taxes are paid.
• Distributing the estate. Once assets are collected and the bills are paid, the administrator must distribute the remainder of the estate to the heirs named in the will. If there is no will, the administrator distributes the assets per the court’s decision.

Whether the  probate estate is being administered pursuant to a will  or intestate,  a complex set of rules and regulations governs the proceedings. If you are a nominated personal representative under a will or will serve as a personal representative, you should seek counsel that is experienced in the administration of  estates.

Call today to speak with a skilled Florida probate administration lawyer

Avoid family conflicts and potential litigation with the help of the probate administration attorneys at Lyons, Beaudry & Harrison. Contact us online or call 941-444-6407 today to schedule an appointment and discuss your case. Our office is located on Main Street in Sarasota, Florida.