Fort Walton Beach Probate Attorney
Providing Reliable Legal Solutions for Families Throughput and Destin and Okaloosa County
In the event of a loved one's passing, unless a trust has been established, the estate typically undergoes the probate process. This procedure ensures that the decedent’s assets are distributed as per their will or, in the absence of a will, determines the distribution of the estate based on state law. At Dowd Law Firm, our probate lawyer brings over three decades of combined legal experience to the table.
Reach out to our law firm today at (850) 972-2233 to arrange a consultation with our Fort Walton Beach and Destin probate lawyer and begin your probate journey.
What is Probate?
Probate is a legal process where the estate of a deceased person is settled and distributed, either in line with their will or, if absent, under state law. This process ensures that the decedent’s debts are paid and their remaining assets are allocated correctly.
The key components of probate are as follows:
- Validation of the Will: Confirming the legitimacy of the deceased's will.
- Appointment of Executor: Assigning an individual to oversee the estate's administration.
- Inventory of Assets: Cataloging the deceased's property and assets.
- Settlement of Debts and Taxes: Ensuring all outstanding obligations are met.
- Distribution of Remaining Assets: Allocating what's left according to the will or state law.
In Florida, the probate process includes the following nuances that set it apart:
- Personal Representative Requirements: Florida mandates that the executor must be a blood relative, spouse, or state resident.
- Formal vs. Summary Administration: The state distinguishes between formal administration for larger estates or contentious situations and summary administration for smaller estates or those where the decedent has been deceased for over two years.
While navigating probate in Florida may seem daunting due to these unique stipulations, the overall difficulty hinges on the estate's complexity, the will's clarity, and potential disputes among heirs. Seeking professional guidance is recommended to smoothly navigate the probate landscape, ensuring compliance with state laws and safeguarding the estate's integrity.
Our Testimonials
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"Glad to have this fabulous law firm in our corner."Jake, thank you for all of your help as usual. You are a gem. Glad to have this fabulous law firm in our corner.- Stevie
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"Fantastic closing/title transfer"Fantastic closing with Dalisse! She took complete control and I didn’t have to worry about anything . Quick and smooth closing, just the experience I was hoping for!- Ali G
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"5 stars and highly recommend!"An amazing company, easy to work with and everyone is very knowledgeable! 5 stars and highly recommend!- Laura
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"Their professionalism and dedication are unsurpassed."I have worked for a local Real Estate Company for 12 years and have needed the assistance of an attorney periodically. I have recently started using the Dowd Firm. Their professionalism and dedication are unsurpassed. I without reservation recommend this firm. You won't find a better staff and attorney's to work with.- S.M.
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"I am so glad I chose this firm!"Made the decision to go with this firm due to their very nice staff. Estate Planning and Real Estate can be really complicated but they were so knowledgeable and explained things really well. The ladies who took my call were so sweet and helpful and I am so glad I chose this firm!- Tony G.
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"Just overall the best staff!!"Angie and Brittany were so kind and helpful on the phone. Calling a law firm can always be a little nerve wrecking especially if it’s your first time but they made me feel so comfortable. Mr. Dowd is so knowledgeable in probate and real estate that I would not recommend anyone else other than him on the Emerald Coast. Just overall the best staff!!- Jessica G.
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"You have accomplished a major victory!!!!"John, I know it's taken about a year, but I can't tell you how happy and relieved I am!!!!! You have accomplished a major victory!!!! Thank you for taking care of me, once again. It seems like every time I hit a crises in my life, I have been able to call you and you take care of me. Michelle has been so helpful and understanding. She kept on top of Bayview and made sure they followed through.- Judy
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"We are extremely grateful to you and your team."Dear Jake, Thank you so much for your outstanding skill at convincing people to follow the laws of their contractual agreements. We tried for years as you know to no avail. Whatever you said to the Parises enabled the sale of our lot to close on time. That is all AJ and I wanted for Christmas, to be rid of that mortgage. We are extremely grateful to you and your team. We will definitely recommend you to anyone we know looking for legal aid. We wish you the very best for your upcoming marriage and desires for a growing family. Having a loving and supportive partner through life's experiences is a treasure that is beyond measure and compare. If there is ever anything that we can do or suggest based on our experiences for you and yours please don't hesitate to reach out to us.- M.B.
