Probate & Estate Administration
Guiding Families Through a Difficult Time with Clarity, Compassion, and Experience.
Probate is the court-supervised process used to settle a person’s estate after death. In Florida, this process can be complex, time-consuming, and emotionally overwhelming especially while you’re grieving.
At Light Path Law, we help families navigate the legal requirements with confidence and peace of mind. Whether you are a personal representative (executor) or a beneficiary, you don’t have to face this alone.
You may need to start a probate process when:
- Your loved one passed away without a will
- A will exists but assets must be transferred or titled
- Real estate is involved
- Banks, institutions, or agencies require court documents to release assets
- There are disputes or unclear instructions
- You are appointed as the personal representative and must fulfill your legal duties
We guide you through the process from beginning to end.
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Formal Administration
For estates with significant assets or when court involvement is required. We handle filings, notices, asset identification, creditor claims, distribution, and final accounting. -
Summary Administration
A faster, simplified process available for estates under a certain value or when the decedent has been deceased for more than two years. -
Ancillary Probate
If your loved one lived out of state but owned property in Florida, we handle the required Florida-specific probate. -
Estate Administration Support
Guidance for personal representatives on their legal obligations, including:- Managing assets
- Paying valid debts
- Communicating with beneficiaries
- Filing required documents
- Executing distributions correctly
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Will Validation & Disputes
Support when questions arise regarding the validity of a will, beneficiary conflicts, or unclear instructions. -
Trust Administration After Death
If a trust exists, we assist trustees with post-death administration, notice requirements, and asset distribution.
We make an overwhelming process understandable and structured.
1. Initial Consultation
We review the family’s situation, the estate’s assets, and any existing documents.
2. Determine the Appropriate Probate Type
We evaluate whether the estate qualifies for Summary Administration or requires Formal Administration.
3. File Court Documents
We prepare and submit all petitions, notices, and affidavits required by Florida law.
4. Identify & Secure Assets
We assist in gathering, valuing, and protecting estate assets.
5. Manage Debts & Creditor Claims
We verify claims, settle legitimate debts, and challenge improper ones.
6. Distribute Assets to Beneficiaries
Once court requirements are met, we oversee the distribution of assets according to the will or Florida law.
7. Close the Estate
We finalize filings and help bring the process to a smooth and compliant close.
Why Work With Light Path Law?
- Compassionate guidance during an emotional and stressful time
- Clear, step-by-step communication so you always know what to expect
- In-depth knowledge of Florida probate law and local court procedures
- Support for both simple and complex estates
- Bilingual team assisting English- and Spanish-speaking families across Southwest Florida
Our goal is to ease your burden and ensure your loved one’s legacy is handled with care.
How long does probate take in Florida?
Do all estates require probate?
What happens if there is no will?
What is the role of a personal representative?
Can probate be avoided?
We’re here to guide you with clarity, professionalism, and compassion.