After a death, someone has to gather the assets, pay what is owed, and distribute what is left, following the will, the trust, or Florida law. The firm represents personal representatives and trustees through that process in Brevard County and other Florida counties.
After a death
The first steps are to locate the will and any trust, obtain death certificates, secure property, and find out what the person owned and owed. The firm meets with the family early to explain what will be required and how long it usually takes.
Probate in Brevard County
Probate is the court process that transfers assets held in the deceased person’s own name. Florida has a full administration for larger estates and a shorter process for small ones. The firm prepares the filings, notices to creditors and beneficiaries, the inventory, and the final accounting, and appears in court when needed. Florida requires an attorney for most formal probate administrations.
Trust administration
Assets held in a trust pass outside probate, but the trustee still has duties: notify beneficiaries, collect and value assets, pay debts and taxes, keep records, and distribute according to the trust. The firm advises trustees on each step and prepares the notices and accountings the trust and Florida law require.
What personal representatives and trustees must do
- Act in the interest of the beneficiaries, not their own.
- Keep estate or trust assets separate from personal assets.
- Keep records of everything received and paid.
- Communicate with beneficiaries and give the notices the law requires.
Contact the office if you have been named personal representative or trustee, or a family member has died without a plan.