Losing a loved one is difficult enough without having to navigate an unfamiliar legal process at the same time. At Farshchian Law, our Tampa probate attorneys guide personal representatives and beneficiaries through every stage of the Florida probate process, from filing the initial petition to distributing assets to heirs, so families can focus on what matters most.
We serve clients throughout Tampa, Brandon, Hudson, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Riverview, and the surrounding communities of Pinellas and Hillsborough County, as well as non-Florida residents and international property owners with assets in the area.
Probate in Hillsborough and Pinellas County
Probate proceedings for estates in Tampa and the surrounding areas of Pinellas and Hillsborough County are filed with the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court. Our attorneys are familiar with the court’s local procedures and filing requirements, and we work to move each estate through the process as efficiently as possible.
Tampa’s real estate market has grown substantially in recent years, drawing both new residents and out-of-state investors to the area. This growth means a rising number of estates in Hillsborough County involve real property, investment holdings, and beneficiaries who may not live in Florida. Our attorneys regularly assist personal representatives and heirs in navigating these situations.
Types of Probate Administration in Florida
Formal Administration
Formal administration is required when the value of the estate’s non-exempt assets exceeds $150,000, or when the deceased passed away within the last two years. This process involves appointing a personal representative, notifying creditors, managing estate assets, resolving debts, and distributing the estate to beneficiaries. Formal administration in Florida typically takes six months to a year to complete.
Summary Administration
When the total value of the estate’s non-exempt assets is $150,000 or less, or when the decedent passed away more than two years ago, summary administration offers a faster and simpler alternative. Homestead property is not counted toward the $150,000 threshold, meaning a Tampa home can be worth considerably more and the estate may still qualify. Summary administration does not require appointment of a personal representative and is often resolved in six to eight weeks.
Ancillary Administration for Non-Florida Residents
If a person who lived outside of Florida owned real estate or other property in the Tampa area, ancillary administration may be required to transfer that property to the beneficiaries. This is increasingly common in Pinellas and Hillsborough County given the number of out-of-state investors who own Tampa-area property. Ancillary administration can proceed as either a formal or summary process depending on the circumstances.
How We Help Tampa Families and Estates
When you retain Farshchian Law to handle a Tampa probate matter, our attorneys take on the full legal burden of the process. Our services include:
- Evaluating the estate to determine which form of probate applies
- Advising the personal representative on their legal duties and responsibilities
- Preparing and filing all required court petitions and documents with the Hillsborough County Probate Court
- Drafting the estate inventory, creditor notices, and distribution orders
- Resolving creditor claims and managing estate debts
- Handling the sale or transfer of Tampa-area real estate during or after probate
- Facilitating deed transfers and clearing title to real property
- Attending all required court hearings on behalf of the estate
- Distributing assets to heirs in accordance with the will or Florida intestacy law
Avoiding Probate for Florida Property
Many Tampa-area property owners plan ahead so that their assets pass to loved ones without the cost and delay of probate. Common estate planning tools used under Florida law include:
- Lady Bird Deeds (Enhanced Life Estate Deeds), which allow a property owner to retain full control during their lifetime while ensuring automatic transfer to a named beneficiary upon death
- Revocable living trusts, which hold property outside the probate estate
- Joint tenancy with rights of survivorship and tenancy by the entirety for married couples
- Beneficiary designations on financial accounts and life insurance policies
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a probate attorney in Tampa, FL?
Formal administration in Florida requires representation by a licensed Florida attorney. While summary administration does not carry the same requirement, working with an experienced attorney helps ensure the process moves correctly and efficiently, avoiding delays and added costs from filing errors.
How long does probate take in Hillsborough County and Pinellas County?
Summary administration can often be completed in six to eight weeks. Formal administration typically takes six months to a year, depending on the size of the estate, the number of creditors, and whether disputes arise among beneficiaries.
Serving Tampa, Hillsborough County, and Beyond
Farshchian Law maintains offices in Tampa, Miami, and Naples. Our Tampa probate attorneys serve clients throughout Hillsborough County, including Tampa, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Hudson, Brandon, Riverview, and Plant City, as well as clients in other states and countries who have estate matters involving Florida property.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If you need a probate attorney in Tampa, FL, contact Farshchian Law today. We offer free consultations and will walk you through the process from the first call.
Miami Office: 305-901-5628
Naples Office: 239-935-8599
Tampa Office: 813-367-0129
Toll-Free: 855-513-5880
Email: Info@JFRealEstateLaw.com