How to Avoid Probate in Florida

Probate Lawyers in Lakeland Florida. We Provide experienced Probate Legal Services in Polk County, Central Florida and the entire State of Florida.

Call 863.250.2990 today to schedule a Free Consultation with our skilled Probate attorneys.

Navigating Florida’s probate process can be costly, lengthy, and frustrating. At MTM Law Firm, we offer proven strategies to help you avoid probate, ensuring that your assets are passed on quickly, efficiently, and according to your wishes. Let us guide you toward a seamless estate plan, giving you peace of mind.

50+ Years of Probate Avoidance Experience

At MTM Law Firm, our probate attorneys have over five decades of combined experience. We help clients confidently navigate estate planning and probate avoidance.

We know that probate can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to provide clear guidance. Our goal is to protect your assets and ensure a smooth transfer of wealth to your loved ones.

Why Avoid Probate?

Probate proceedings are public and can expose your personal financial affairs to anyone who wants to access them. Additionally, probate opens the door for creditors to make claims against the estate, further delaying the distribution of assets. In some cases, probate can take as long as two years, leaving beneficiaries without access to funds or property during this time.

The good news is there are legal methods that make avoiding probate both practical and achievable. Whether you’re worried about the cost, the time, or the potential for disputes, our team at MTM Law Firm can help you create an estate plan designed to bypass probate.

How to Avoid Probate in Florida

At MTM Law Firm, we specialize in helping clients avoid probate by using effective legal strategies that ensure your estate is transferred smoothly to your beneficiaries. These strategies include:

• Living Trusts: By creating a living trust, you can transfer ownership of your assets into the trust while you’re still alive. Upon your passing, the assets are transferred to your designated beneficiaries without going through probate. This method keeps your estate private and ensures that your loved ones avoid the hassle of probate court.
• Joint Ownership: Assets owned jointly with rights of survivorship (such as joint bank accounts or jointly owned real estate) automatically pass to the surviving owner upon your death, bypassing probate altogether.
• Beneficiary Designations: Accounts with designated beneficiaries, like retirement accounts and life insurance policies, automatically transfer to the named beneficiaries without the need for probate.
• Lady Bird Deeds: A special type of deed known as a Lady Bird Deed allows you to transfer ownership of your home or property to beneficiaries while retaining control during your lifetime. Upon your death, ownership passes to the beneficiaries without going through probate.
• Summary Administration: If your estate is valued at less than $75,000, you may qualify for Florida’s Summary Administration, which is a simplified version of probate that can be completed more quickly and with less expense.

Experienced Estate Planning Attorneys By Your Side

MTM Law Firm's experienced estate planning attorneys will guide you through the process of creating a comprehensive estate plan that minimizes the risk of probate. We'll ensure your assets are protected and your wishes are honored, providing you with peace of mind and your loved ones with a smooth transition.

If you have questions about Probate issues, don’t wait—make sure your legal rights are protected. Call 863.250.2990 today to schedule your Free Consultation with our Probate attorneys.