What is probate?

Florida probate refers to the legal court process through which the estate of a deceased individual is administered and distributed according to Florida law and statute. It involves the identification, valuation, and distribution of the decedent’s assets, as well as addressing any outstanding debts and taxes. Probate in Florida can be either a formal administration or a summary administration, depending on the complexity and size of the estate. The court oversees the probate process to ensure the proper handling of the deceased person’s affairs. Key steps include appointing a personal representative, notifying heirs and creditors, inventorying assets, and settling claims before distributing the remaining assets to the designated beneficiaries.