What does it mean that the probate case is marked “disposed” and are there any funds left? - Florida
The Short Answer
In Florida probate, a case marked “disposed” usually means the court considers the estate administration finished and the file is closed—often after a final accounting and a discharge of the personal representative (executor). That status does not automatically tell you whether money was left; it often means assets were distributed, but you may need access to the final accounting and closing documents to confirm what came in, what went out, and what (if anything) remained.
What Florida Law Says
Florida estates typically close when the personal representative completes administration (collecting assets, paying valid expenses/claims, and distributing what remains) and is then discharged. Once discharged, the personal representative is generally released from further liability in that role, which is one reason “disposed/closed” matters if you suspect assets were missed or distributions were incorrect.
The Statute
The primary law governing this issue is Fla. Stat. § 733.901.
This statute establishes that after administration has been completed, the personal representative must be discharged—and that discharge generally releases the personal representative and bars actions against them in that capacity.
If the executor died, resigned, or was removed during the case, Florida law also addresses final accountings and discharge in those situations, typically requiring a final accounting and delivery of assets to a successor fiduciary before discharge. See, for example, Fla. Stat. § 733.508 (removed personal representative) and Fla. Stat. § 733.5036 (resignation).
Related reading: What Is the Final Accounting in the Florida Probate Process? and What Do I Need to Do to Close a Probate Estate in Florida?.
Why You Should Speak with an Attorney
Even if the docket says “disposed,” that doesn’t answer the key questions you raised: whether the accounting was accurate, whether all assets were found, and whether beneficiaries received what they were entitled to—especially where the executor died and you can’t reach the prior lawyer.
Legal outcomes often depend on:
- Strict Deadlines: Closing/discharge can limit later claims against the personal representative under Fla. Stat. § 733.901, and probate objections and related disputes can be time-sensitive depending on what was served and when.
- Burden of Proof: If you believe assets existed (bank accounts, real property, life insurance payable to the estate, refunds, etc.), you typically need evidence to show what was owned, what was administered, and what was distributed.
- Exceptions and “missing asset” issues: Some property never becomes a probate asset (for example, certain beneficiary-designated accounts), and some assets can be overlooked—figuring out which is which often requires a lawyer’s review of the file, accountings, and asset trail.
When a case is closed and key people are unreachable, an attorney can evaluate what the court record actually shows, whether you qualify as an “interested person,” and what options may exist if something was missed or mishandled—without you risking missteps that can get a matter shut down quickly.
Related reading: What Are an Executor’s (Personal Representative’s) Responsibilities During Probate in Florida? and Can a Personal Representative Be Removed or Replaced in Florida Probate?.
Get Connected with a Florida Attorney
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Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Florida law and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed attorney.