Jacksonville, FL Probate Lawyer Serving Duval County, Florida
Probate Attorneys Serving Jacksonville and Duval County, Florida. We Provide experienced Probate Legal for all of Northeast Florida and the entire State of Florida.
Call 863.250.2990 today to schedule a Free Consultation with our skilled Probate attorneys.
Over 50 Years of Probate Experience
The passing of a loved one is a difficult experience, and the legal process that follows can add to the stress. In Jacksonville and throughout Duval County, probate matters are handled by the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court. This large and active court has its own specific procedures that require an attorney with deep local knowledge to ensure a smooth and timely administration of the estate.
At MTM PROBATE, we provide compassionate and expert legal representation to guide you through the complexities of Duval County probate. Our attorneys are committed to ensuring the proper and efficient transfer of assets, allowing you to focus on your family during this challenging time.
Our Comprehensive Probate and Estate Services in Duval County
We offer a full range of legal services to address all your probate needs, from straightforward administrations to complex legal disputes. Our services include:
- Formal Administration: The standard probate process for estates with assets valued at more than $75,000. Our team works with the court-appointed personal representative to manage all aspects of the estate, including asset collection, creditor payments, and asset distribution to beneficiaries.
- Ancillary Administration: Required when a non-Florida resident dies owning real estate or other property in Duval County. Our firm assists out-of-state personal representatives in fulfilling Florida's legal requirements to properly transfer title.
- Estate Litigation: We represent clients in disputes that can arise during probate, such as challenges to a will's validity or issues with the administration of the estate.
- Real Estate Litigation: We handle legal conflicts concerning real property owned by the estate, including title disputes and conflicts over the sale of a property. Given the active real estate market in Jacksonville, this is a frequent and critical aspect of our practice.
- Trust Litigation: Our attorneys are experienced in resolving legal challenges related to the validity or administration of a trust.
- Will Contest: We provide strong legal advocacy for clients involved in disputes over the validity of a will, based on grounds such as a lack of mental capacity, undue influence, or improper execution.
- Intestate Succession: When a person dies without a will, Florida's laws of intestacy dictate how their assets are distributed. We guide heirs through this process to ensure a lawful and proper distribution of the estate.
What Makes Probate in Duval County Unique?
While Florida's probate laws are uniform statewide, the practical administration of an estate in the Fourth Judicial Circuit has its own specific characteristics. Our familiarity with the local court's procedures is a significant advantage.
Key distinctions of the probate process in Duval County include:
- Local Procedures for Orders: The court has specific requirements for submitting proposed orders. For example, some judges may require proposed orders to be submitted via the e-portal only after the corresponding motion has been filed and appeared on the docket. Our firm is well-versed in these submission protocols, which helps to avoid rejections and delays.
- Original Will Requirements: The Duval County Clerk of Court has specific rules regarding the original will. While most documents are e-filed, the original Last Will and Testament must be filed with the Clerk's Office within 10 days of the decedent's passing, a crucial step to starting the probate process.
- E-Filing and CORE System: The Fourth Judicial Circuit uses a robust e-filing portal for attorneys. The CORE (Clerk's Online Resource e-Portal) system allows for viewing case information and is a vital tool for managing a probate case. Our firm is proficient in using these systems to ensure all documents are submitted and tracked accurately.
Additional Estate and Elder Law Services in Jacksonville and Duval County, Florida
Proactive estate planning is the best way to protect your family and your legacy, often preventing the need for probate. We offer a full suite of services to help you create a comprehensive plan that reflects your wishes.
Our additional legal services include:
- Estate Planning: We work with you to create a customized plan that protects your assets and fulfills your wishes for the future.
- Last Will and Testament: The cornerstone of any estate plan, a will provides clear instructions for the distribution of your property.
- Living Will and Advance Healthcare Directive: These documents ensure your medical wishes are honored if you become incapacitated.
- Power of Attorney: This legal instrument grants a trusted person the authority to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf.
- Conservatorships and Guardianships: We assist with the legal process of appointing a guardian to manage the affairs of a minor or an incapacitated adult.
- Trust Creation: We can help you establish various types of trusts to protect assets, ensure privacy, and avoid probate.
If you are dealing with a probate matter or need assistance with estate planning in Jacksonville or Duval County, contact MTM PROBATE today. We are here to provide the expert legal guidance and compassionate support you deserve.
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.
If you are wondering where to find a Probate Lawyer near me in Jacksonville, FL and throughout the State of Florida, The MTM Law Firm PLLC is the Law Firm to call. We have a combined 50 years experience in Probate legal matters.