What records are needed to show asset transfers under Florida (FL) small estate procedures?
This FAQ-style guide explains what documents and records commonly prove that assets were transferred (or are entitled to be transferred) under Florida small estate procedures. It summarizes how Florida law treats small estates, which records courts and third parties typically require, and practical steps to prepare a strong proof package. This is general information only […]
Read article →What are the legal requirements and process for transferring a decedent’s firearms during probate in FL
Disclaimer This is educational information, not legal advice. If you need legal guidance about a particular estate or firearms transfer in Florida, consult a qualified attorney or an experienced probate or firearms-transfer professional. Detailed Answer Overview — who manages a decedent’s firearms during probate? When someone dies in Florida, the personal representative (executor or administrator) […]
Read article →What documentation is needed to prove ownership when filing a surplus funds claim in Florida (FL)
Detailed Answer When a foreclosure sale produces money in excess of what is needed to satisfy liens and costs, those remaining funds (often called “surplus funds” or “overage”) are held by the clerk of the court. A person or entity claiming entitlement to those funds must show clear proof of ownership or superior right to […]
Read article →How to protect life insurance proceeds when there is no named beneficiary from creditor claims in estate administration — Florida (FL)
FAQ: Protecting Life Insurance Proceeds When No Beneficiary Is Named — Florida Quick answer If a life insurance policy lists no living beneficiary or the beneficiary is the decedent’s estate, the proceeds normally become estate property and are subject to probate and creditor claims in Florida. To protect proceeds going forward, the main options are […]
Read article →What should I do if an heir refuses to return estate property and the estate is still open? (FL)
Detailed Answer Short answer: If an heir refuses to return property that belongs to an estate while probate is still open in Florida, the personal representative (or an interested party) can ask the probate court to order turnover of the property. The probate court has authority to compel delivery of estate assets, and there are […]
Read article →What options do heirs have when an estate administrator becomes unresponsive or refuses to distribute assets? (FL)
Detailed answer — What heirs can do when a Florida estate administrator (personal representative) is unresponsive or refuses to distribute assets When an estate administrator (called a personal representative in Florida) stops communicating, delays distribution, or refuses to distribute assets, heirs have clear legal options under Florida law. The steps below explain what heirs can […]
Read article →How Can Heirs Petition the Court to Reopen a Closed Estate to Claim Unclaimed Assets in Florida?
Detailed Answer In Florida, heirs and other interested persons may petition the probate court to reopen a closed estate to recover assets discovered after final distribution. For example, if an heir discovers a bank account or real property that was not listed in the original inventory, they can file a petition under Florida Statutes Section […]
Read article →What is the process for inventorying and distributing estate assets among multiple heirs in Florida?
Inventorying and Distributing Estate Assets Among Multiple Heirs in Florida Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. It is for informational purposes only. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Detailed Answer 1. Appointment of Personal Representative In Florida, probate begins when a court appoints a personal representative (PR). The PR […]
Read article →How Do Heirs Locate and Claim Unclaimed Property of a Deceased Relative in Florida?
Detailed Answer Under Florida law, unclaimed property includes tangible and intangible assets abandoned or inactive for a designated period, such as bank accounts, life insurance benefits, safe deposit contents and unpaid wages. Chapter 717 of the Florida Statutes governs unclaimed property. § 717.103, Fla. Stat. defines “unclaimed property,” and § 717.117, Fla. Stat. outlines the […]
Read article →What Factors Influence the Timeline for Completing the Probate Process in Florida
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney regarding your specific situation. Detailed Answer In Florida, the time needed to complete probate varies by case. The probate process can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. Several key factors influence how quickly […]
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