Probate Administration - Pensacola Family Law Attorney

You are not expected to know how to do this.

When a loved one passes away, you may suddenly find yourself named as the person responsible for managing their estate: their home, their accounts, their debts, their wishes. It is an honour, and it can also feel overwhelming.

Florida probate is the court-supervised process of settling a deceased person's estate. It involves specific legal steps, deadlines, and filings. Mistakes can lead to delays, disputes, or even personal liability for the personal representative.

Christine S. Cook guides you through every step - clearly, patiently, and with genuine care. You will always know what is happening and what comes next. And you will never face this process alone.

Formal Administration

Required for most estates valued over $75,000. Christine handles all court filings, creditor notices, asset collection, and final distribution. Timeline: typically 6-12 months depending on complexity.

Summary Administration

A faster, more affordable option for qualifying estates (under $75,000 or when the decedent passed more than two years ago). Christine evaluates eligibility and handles all filings from start to finish.

Ancillary Probate

If your loved one lived outside Florida but owned Florida real estate, ancillary probate is required. Christine handles all Florida-specific filings and coordinates with out-of-state attorneys.

Managing a Florida Estate from Out of State?

Many of Christine's clients live outside Florida when a loved one passes away here. Distance does not have to complicate the process. Because Florida courts allow electronic filing, Christine can handle the full probate process on your behalf, and most clients never need to appear in court.

Christine keeps out-of-state families informed at every step, communicates via phone and video, and handles all local filings and court interactions so you can focus on your family.

Step 1

File the Petition

Christine prepares and files the petition for administration in the appropriate Florida circuit court.

Step 2

Notify & Inventory

Beneficiaries and creditors are notified. Assets are identified, valued, and protected.

Step 3

Resolve & Distribute

Creditor claims are handled, taxes addressed, and assets distributed to beneficiaries. The estate is closed.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you're planning your estate or navigating probate after a loss, Christine is here to help.

850-572-3443

Schedule a Consultation