What To Expect
Taking the Stress Out of the Probate Process
The death of a loved can be a difficult time and we understand that this probate may be your first experience dealing with a lawyer. Our goal is to make your experience with our firm, seamless and positive. We strive to make the process easy to understand, answering all your questions. We will not speak down to you but speak with you in a respectful manner meant to foster your greater understanding of the probate process.
Initial Consultation
Our first step is to gather the information we need to assess your case. As no two probates are the same, this question-and-answer process is key. During this process, we ask questions, and you provide answers, and you ask questions, and we provide answers. Often times, we are able to provide an initial consultation the first time you call our office, without the need to schedule an appointment. An initial consultation typically takes 30-45 minutes and we do not charge a fee for this time.
Our hope is that this experience will provide you the information needed to make informed decisions and give you comfort that we are the right firm for you.
Preparing for the Consultation
The more information you can provide, the easier it will be to assess your case and answer all your questions. If possible, the following is list of documents you may want to have at your fingertips during your initial consultation.
Last Will and Testament
Outstanding Bills, Including Mortgage Statements, Medical Bills, Credit Card Statements, and Car Loan Statements
List of Assets, Including Bank Statements, Brokerage Account Statements, Life Insurance Policies, ans Car and Boat Titles
Names and Addresses of Beneficiaries
Death Certificate
Loved One's Social Security Number
Though this list is not exhaustive, it is a great start.
How Long Does a Probate Take?
This can be a difficult question to answer, as there are many factors which effect the timing of a case.
How long ago did your loved one pass away?
Is your loved one a Florida resident or a resident of another state?
What type of assets does your loved one own?
Is there a house to be sold?
Does your loved one have creditors?
Does an estate tax return have to be filed?
Our promise to you is to do everything in our control to proceed with your case as efficiently as possible.
Communicating with Our Office
When you contact our office, you will be speaking directly with the probate lawyer handling your case. Your lawyer will always be available to answer your questions. There will be occasions when you speak with our paralegal, but these calls typically include updates and quick questions regarding your case.
If you leave a message, you can expect a return your call within 24-business hours of your message, though calls are typically returned well before then. You can expect the same turn-around time for emails.
How Much Will I Pay for My Case
We wish we could give a bottom-line answer. But like so many other aspects of probate, the answer will depend on the variables of your case. We will do our best to give a price range. Our promise to you is that during your initial consultation, we will provide as much information as we can, allowing you to make an informed decision in choosing our firm.