Pensacola, FL Probate Lawyer
Pensacola, FL Probate Lawyer Serving Escambia County, Florida
Over 50 Years of Probate Experience
The probate process in Florida is a legal journey that can be complex and emotionally taxing. In Pensacola and throughout Escambia County, all probate matters are handled by the First Judicial Circuit Court. Navigating this system requires a firm understanding of the local court’s specific rules and procedures to ensure a smooth and efficient administration of the estate.
At MTM PROBATE, we provide compassionate and expert legal representation to guide you through the complexities of Escambia County probate. Our attorneys are committed to ensuring the proper and timely transfer of assets, allowing you to focus on your family during a challenging time.
Our Comprehensive Probate and Estate Services in Escambia County
We offer a full range of legal services to address all your probate and estate needs, from straightforward administrations to complex legal disputes. Our services include:
Formal Administration
Summary Administration
Ancillary Administration
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
Trust Litigation
Our attorneys are experienced in resolving legal challenges related to the validity or administration of a trust.
Will Contest
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 Escambia County Unique?
Key distinctions of the probate process in Escambia County include:
Court-Specific Checklists: The court provides detailed checklists for various probate and guardianship proceedings, such as those for opening a formal administration. Adhering to these checklists precisely is essential to avoid rejections and delays. Our firm is meticulous in ensuring all filings are complete and accurate from the start.
Proposed Order Submission: The First Judicial Circuit has a specific protocol for submitting proposed orders via the e-filing portal. For instance, proposed orders must be named in a specific format (Case Number/Last Name/Title of Order) to be accepted. Our firm is well-versed in these submission protocols, which helps to streamline the process.
Original Will Filing: Similar to other circuits, Escambia County requires the original Last Will and Testament to be filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court within 10 days of the decedent’s passing, a crucial first step in the probate process.
Additional Estate and Elder Law Services in Pensacola and Escambia County, FL
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.: 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.
Attorneys
A graduate of Jones Law, he is our team lead for the probate department and case management. He is the one to establish the plan in court.
A graduate of St Thomas Law, Carlos is head of client management and client relations. He is the master of what happens out of court.
A graduate of Cumberland School of Law, Dennis serves as of counsel bringing legislative experience from his tenure as U.S. Congressman.