Daytona Beach Probate Attorney

Probate Lawyer in Daytona Beach, FL

After a loved one passes away, the grieving process may be unbearable. Having to navigate Florida probate laws during this time adds unnecessary stress to families. It’s recommended to work with a Daytona Beach probate attorney to help you through the probate process in FL.

Hire a Probate Attorney That You Can Count On

Since 2003, the Law Office of Douglas A. Oberdorfer, P.A., has assisted Florida families during their most difficult times in life. Mr. Oberdorfer is a Daytona Beach estate planning lawyer with decades of professional experience. Our team offers consultations to those living in Daytona Beach and the surrounding Florida cities.

What Is Probate?

Florida is a common destination for Americans to retire, thanks to its climate. In 2023, there were 82,493 residents living in Daytona Beach. Approximately 18,973 of these residents were 65 and older. Between 2021 and 2022, 77,344 probate cases were filed across the state.

Probate is the official legal process that happens when a person passes away. Many people want to avoid probate in FL. It can be time-consuming, costly, and emotionally draining. There are two main types of probate that happen in Florida. These are:

1. Formal Administration: This is used for those with larger or more complex estates.
2. Summary Administration: This is used for lower-value estates that total less than $75,000. It’s also used if the person who passed has been deceased for more than 2 years. This process is a simplified version of formal administration and generally costs less time and money.

The Role of a Personal Representative

When you’re dealing with the grief of your loved one, the last thing you want to do is jump through legal hoops. A personal representative may be appointed to handle the entire process. This person is either named directly in the deceased’s will or assigned by the Volusia County Courthouse, located at 125 East Orange Avenue. The personal representative is in charge of:

1. Gathering all the deceased’s assets
2. Using those assets to pay off any outstanding debts, bills, or taxes
3. Distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries, either named in the deceased’s will or according to state succession law

In 2023, the average household income in Daytona Beach was $50,442, with the average home value being $315,000. When a personal representative is handling these high-value assets, a lawyer can be invaluable.

Probate also involves many deadlines and filing requirements. You’ll need to hire a probate attorney, as mistakes can lead to legal penalties. A probate lawyer can help you understand state laws, avoid noncompliance, and assist in ensuring your loved one’s last wishes are carried out properly.

Work With an Experienced Probate Lawyer in Florida

The team at the Law Office of Douglas A. Oberdorfer, P.A. values transparency in our client relationships. Reach out to us today to schedule your first meeting. During your consultation with Mr. Oberdorfer, you’ll be able to explain your unique situation. He’ll be able to offer his legal knowledge and guidance to help you make informed decisions about your loved one’s estate.