In Indian River County, probate is handled by the Circuit Court. These cases go through the Civil Division. They handle both probate and guardianship concerns. It is important to be aware of certain fees that may need to be paid, such as a one-dollar index fee for a...
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Probate
What is the cost of probate in Florida?
When a loved one passes away, managing their estate can feel overwhelming. If you are facing this process, understanding the financial obligations early can help you prepare. Probate in Florida can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars for a summary administration...
What happens to a Port St. Lucie home when owners die intestate?
When a homeowner in Port St. Lucie passes away without a valid will, family members may be left wondering what will happen to the deceased’s house. In Florida, dying without a will is known as dying "intestate." In these situations, state law—not the deceased person's...
Things you should know about probate in Florida
When you lose a loved one, you may have to handle their final affairs. This could mean having to follow their estate plan, which may involve having to go through the probate process. In Florida, probate may be needed when assets are owned in the decedent’s name, but...
Does a POD account go through probate?
No, a payable-on-death (POD) account typically skips over the probate process. This is because a POD account already has a named beneficiary who is meant to take over as the account holder when the original owner passes away. Because the beneficiary designation has...
Understanding the probate process in Florida
When a loved one passes away, managing their estate can feel overwhelming. In Stuart and the rest of Florida, the probate process provides a structured way to transfer assets and settle financial matters under court supervision. Although probate may seem complicated,...
Notifying creditors of Florida probate proceedings
The Florida probate process can be relatively complex. It imposes a variety of obligations on personal representatives, including a responsibility to satisfy the financial obligations of the deceased individual. Creditors should receive notification of pending probate...
What happens when a deceased snowbird owned property in Florida?
Many retired individuals have seasonal homes in Florida. They spend much of the year in a northern location with their families, but they spend the coldest months of the year at a property in Florida. When people die, their surviving family members typically initiate...
What happens if a Florida resident dies without a will?
Too many people don’t think it’s necessary to create an estate plan – even just a will. They just assume that their assets will go directly to their closest family members, like their spouse and children. While this is generally true, it’s important to know that state...
What should you know about probate in Florida?
When a person dies, their estate will likely go through the probate process. In Florida, this is required if assets are held in the person’s name without having beneficiary designations. It’s possible that some property may be handed down to beneficiaries without...

