Probate

Probate Administration In Ocala, FL

We assist family members each step of the way through probate, which is the court-managed process of distributing the decedent’s assets and property to the decedent’s beneficiaries (or heirs, when there is no will). The probate of a will is called a testate probate, and the probate of a decedent’s estate when there is no will is called an intestate probate. Mr. Plappert represents personal representatives (executors) who were appointed in the decedent’s will, as well as those who, because the decedent had no will, must be approved and appointed by the Court.

The personal representative, by law, must be represented by an attorney, and Mr. Plappert knows how to represent, advise and assist personal representatives on a step-by-step basis throughout the administration of the probate estate. The personal representative has the responsibility to account for the assets and obligations of the decedent’s estate and is held to a high standard of care in the fulfillment of his or her duties. The personal representative is also entitled to be reimbursed from the assets of the estate for all legitimate out-of-pocket expenses incurred in the fulfillment of those duties.

• What Is Probate?
• What Actually Happens During The Probate Process?
• What Are Some Misconceptions People Have About The Probate Process?
• What Assets Are Subject To Probate In Florida?
• What Rights Do The Surviving Family Have In The Probate Process?

In some circumstances, the probate estate may qualify for summary administration, which is a shorter probate proceeding in which the appointment of a personal representative is neither required nor necessary. Whether summary administration is a permitted or viable option will depend on the facts and circumstances of each individual case.

If the decedent had a properly drafted and funded living trust, probate may be unnecessary, so the successor trustee(s) will need to administer the distribution and the transfer of the decedent’s assets. Mr. Plappert also represents successor trustees in the fulfillment of their fiduciary obligations and transfer of the decedent’s property to the beneficiaries of the trust.

The Law Offices of Stanley Plappert serves many areas throughout Central Florida and offers the best advice when it comes to probate administration in, Ocala, FL, and surrounding areas.