Simplifying Probate Court Processes For Central Florida Families
Last updated on January 30, 2026
Handling a loved one’s estate can feel overwhelming when you and your family are already coping with grief. As probate lawyers, we understand that managing court filings and asset inventories might be the last thing you want to think about while you are mourning. But these legal requirements serve an important purpose in ensuring your loved one’s wishes are honored and their affairs are properly settled.
For over 15 years, our team at Martin Law Group, PL, has been helping families across Osceola and Polk counties handle probate matters with care and attention. From our office in Kissimmee, we stand ready to guide you and empower you with informed choices throughout this emotional journey.
The Florida Probate Process Explained
Probate is a court-supervised process that transfers a person’s assets after they pass away. This legal procedure ensures that all debts are paid and that any remaining assets go to the appropriate beneficiaries. Whether or not probate is necessary depends on how your loved one prepared their estate. With proper wills and trusts in place, some assets may bypass probate completely.
In Florida, there are three main types of probate administration:
- Formal administration: This standard process applies to estates valued over $75,000 or when the death occurred less than two years ago.
- Summary administration: Courts allow this approach when the total estate value falls under $75,000 or when the deceased person passed away more than two years ago. This process requires less paperwork and fewer court appearances.
- Ancillary probate: The court uses this process when someone lived outside Florida but owned property within the state.
The right approach depends on your family’s specific situation. As experienced estate planning lawyers, we can explain these complex procedures in simple terms and provide the support you need.
Moving Through Probate: A Guide For Grieving Families
The probate process in Central Florida follows several key steps that families must complete after losing a loved one. Here’s what the journey typically looks like:
- Filing the petition: The process begins when you file initial paperwork with the local court to open the probate case and name the personal representative.
- Notifying interested parties: The court requires notification to all beneficiaries named in the will and potential heirs about the probate proceedings.
- Creating an asset inventory: The personal representative will then compile a complete list of all property, accounts and valuables that belonged to your loved one.
- Publishing notice to creditors: This public notice gives legitimate creditors three months to submit claims against the estate.
- Settling debts and taxes: Before distribution can occur, the estate must pay outstanding debts, final bills and any applicable taxes.
- Distributing the remaining assets: After settling all debts, the personal representative distributes the remaining assets according to the will or Florida law.
- Closing the estate: The process concludes when you file final accounting documents with the court to properly close the probate case.
Most cases in Florida take between six and 12 months to complete, though complex estates may require more time. Having a dedicated probate attorney by your side can make a significant difference for your family.
Get Probate Support Tailored To Central Florida
Central Florida families often encounter unique probate challenges that reflect our region’s diverse population and property ownership patterns. These challenges include managing vacation homes, coordinating with relatives who live out of state and respecting various cultural expectations surrounding inheritance.
At Martin Law Group, we are committed to delivering comprehensive care to our clients. Let us help you address these local challenges with personalized guidance. Call our Kissimmee office at 863-343-4856 today or complete this online form to schedule an appointment with our team.