Probate & Estate Administration

Guiding Families Through Probate With Compassion and Clarity

Losing a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of navigating Florida’s probate system. Saxey Law PLLC supports families across Destin and the Emerald Coast by managing the legal steps required to settle an estate with care, precision, and respect.

Guiding You Through the Probate Process

Understanding What Probate Is—and Why It Matters

Probate is the court-supervised process of validating a will, paying debts, and distributing a person’s assets after they pass away. In Florida, an attorney is usually required for formal administration unless the estate is very small, making legal guidance essential. The process can feel overwhelming for families who are grieving, especially if the estate involves real property, multiple heirs, or creditor claims. Our firm helps you understand what to expect and ensures every filing meets Florida’s strict rules. From the first petition to the final distribution of assets, we handle the details so you can focus on your family.

When Is Probate Required in Florida?

Knowing When the Court Must Be Involved

Probate becomes necessary when someone dies with assets titled solely in their name—such as a bank account, home, or vehicle—because those assets cannot transfer to heirs automatically. Some assets, like those in a trust or with designated beneficiaries, can bypass probate entirely. Florida offers two types of probate depending on the estate’s size and timing: Formal Administration and Summary Administration. Determining which route applies requires evaluating the estate’s value, age of the death, and nature of the assets.


Key considerations for probate include:

  • Assets titled solely in the decedent’s name.
  • Whether a valid will exists.
  • The estate’s total value and debt load.
  • Whether a trust or beneficiary designations already handle certain assets.

Our Probate & Estate Administration Services

Comprehensive Support Every Step of the Way

Saxey Law PLLC handles the full probate process—from opening the estate to closing it with the court. We prepare and file the initial petition, guide the Personal Representative in collecting and managing assets, and ensure all creditor notices and statutory requirements are met. Our firm prepares inventories, accountings, and the legal documents needed to transfer property smoothly to beneficiaries. We also address unique challenges like out-of-state assets, missing heirs, or contested claims, offering practical solutions to keep the process moving. With a detail-oriented approach, we work to minimize delays, reduce stress, and protect the estate from avoidable errors.

Compassionate Support During a Difficult Time

Legal Guidance That Respects Your Family’s Needs

Probate often comes at a time of grief, and our role is to provide steady, respectful support throughout the process. We communicate clearly so families know what to expect, avoiding unnecessary confusion or anxiety. Whether the estate is simple or complex, we take on the administrative burden so you do not have to manage it alone. If the decedent was a veteran or owned real estate or a small business, we tailor our approach to address those unique circumstances. Saxey Law offers compassionate assistance that helps families move forward with confidence and closure.

Resolve Your Loved One’s Estate With Help

We Are Here to Simplify the Probate Process

No one should have to navigate probate alone, especially while managing personal loss. Our firm handles the procedural, financial, and legal details required to administer an estate correctly under Florida law. We prioritize efficiency, accuracy, and sensitivity throughout every step. Whether you need help determining which type of probate applies or managing a complex estate, we are ready to guide you. Contact Saxey Law PLLC to discuss your probate needs and begin the process with a trusted advocate by your side.

Frequently Asked Questions – Probate in Florida

Clear Answers During a Challenging Time

  • How long does probate take in Florida?

    Most uncontested formal probate cases take approximately six to twelve months, though timelines vary based on court schedules, creditor periods, and the complexity of the estate. Summary Administration can be faster when applicable, sometimes concluding in a matter of weeks. Estates involving disputes, multiple properties, or tax issues may take longer. We help set realistic expectations and keep the process moving efficiently.

  • What are the costs of probate?

    Probate costs typically include court filing fees, attorney fees, and potential executor fees, all of which are paid from the estate rather than out of the beneficiaries’ pockets. Florida provides statutory guidelines for determining reasonable attorney fees based on the estate’s value. Additional costs may arise for appraisals, certified copies, or specialized legal work. Our firm is transparent about expected fees and works to avoid unnecessary expenses.

  • What happens if there is no will?

    If someone dies without a will, their estate is distributed according to Florida’s intestacy laws, which outline who inherits based on marital status and family relationships. The probate process remains similar to cases with a will, but the court follows the statutory distribution plan rather than personal wishes. A Personal Representative will still need to be appointed, and creditors must still be handled appropriately. We guide families through intestate estates with clarity and care.

  • Do I need to go to court for probate?

    In most cases, the Personal Representative does not need to appear in court physically; the probate attorney handles filings electronically. If all parties agree and no disputes arise, the process can often be completed without any courtroom appearances. However, disputes or unusual situations may require hearings. We ensure our clients are prepared and supported if court involvement becomes necessary.

  • How can we avoid family conflict during probate?

    Clear estate planning, well-written documents, and open communication help prevent disputes. When conflicts do arise, we advise Personal Representatives on how to follow legal duties and avoid favoritism. We also help document decisions thoroughly to minimize misunderstandings. Our calm, structured approach aims to reduce tension and keep the process as smooth as possible for everyone involved.