Orlando Probate Attorney
Clear guidance through Orange County probate, from a Florida attorney who explains things in plain English.
If you're searching for an Orlando probate attorney, chances are someone in your life has recently passed away and now there's an estate to deal with. That's a rough place to be starting from, and the last thing you need is a process that feels like a maze. We handle Orange County probate cases from start to finish, and every relationship begins with a free consultation, so you know exactly what's ahead before you sign anything.
How Probate Works in Orange County
Orange County probate cases go through the Ninth Judicial Circuit, filed at the Orange County Courthouse on North Orange Avenue in downtown Orlando. That downtown courthouse is the only location that handles probate business. The county's branch clerk offices in Apopka, Ocoee, and Winter Park cover other court matters, not probate. Filings go through Florida's statewide e-filing portal, and as in every Florida county, the original will still has to be deposited with the clerk, in person or by mail.
Deadlines That Actually Matter
Once a personal representative is appointed, Florida's probate rules require an inventory of the estate within 60 days, a statewide deadline the Orange County court holds people to closely. Miss that window and you can end up explaining yourself to a judge instead of moving the case forward. Creditor notices also have to run for two consecutive weeks in a qualifying local newspaper, another statewide requirement, before certain other deadlines start counting down. These aren't the kind of dates you want to discover by missing them.
Formal or Summary Administration
Most of what determines your path is the size of the estate and whether there's a valid will.
Summary Administration
Quicker and less expensive, but only available for smaller, simpler estates that meet Florida's requirements.
Formal Administration
The standard route for larger or more complicated estates, with a personal representative formally appointed by the court.
We'll tell you which one applies to your situation on the first call. If cost is on your mind too, here's what actually drives Florida probate costs.
Questions We Hear From Orlando Families
Do I have to go to the Orange County Courthouse myself?
Rarely. Almost everything happens through e-filing and mail. Most clients never need to visit in person.
What if there's no will?
Florida's intestacy laws decide who inherits, and Orange County will require that Affidavit of Heirs mentioned above. We'll walk you through exactly who needs to be listed and how.
How long does Orlando probate usually take?
It depends on the estate. Summary administration often wraps up in a few months. Formal administration usually takes longer. We'll give you a straight answer once we know the details of your case.
What if I still have questions after reading this?
That's what the full Florida Probate FAQ and the free consultation are for. Neither costs you anything to use.
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