Probate is the heartfelt process of honoring a loved one’s legacy, gently guiding their estate through legal steps to ensure their wishes are fulfilled. With care and compassion, it distributes assets, settles debts, and brings closure, allowing families to cherish memories while navigating this tender transition with support.
Losing a loved one is hard, and settling their estate in Florida can be complex. If you are facing this process in Florida, it is important to work with an experienced probate attorney who can guide you with compassion, precision, and integrity.
At the Law Offices of Jared I. Loucel, P.A., we help families and personal representatives in St. Johns, Clay and Duval County, and throughout Northeast Florida navigate the probate process efficiently and respectfully. Whether the estate is small or large, straightforward or complex, I offer tailored legal counsel to meet your needs.
Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s assets are identified, gathered, and distributed to beneficiaries or heirs. The process also ensures that all debts, taxes, and legal obligations of the estate are properly addressed.
In Florida, there are several types of probate administration, each suited to different estate circumstances. I assist clients in determining the most appropriate probate path and handle all aspects of the process from start to finish.
Formal probate administration is the most comprehensive and commonly used process in Florida. It typically applies when:
Formal administration can take several months to over a year depending on the complexity of the estate, creditor claims, or litigation. My role is to simplify this process and provide consistent, reliable support throughout.
Summary administration is a streamlined alternative to formal probate, typically available when:
I can help you determine whether summary administration is appropriate and prepare all required documents to expedite the process.
Summary administration is ideal for estates with limited assets and no known creditor issues. It can be completed much more quickly and without the appointment of a personal representative.
I can help you determine whether summary administration is appropriate and prepare all required documents to expedite the process.
Disposition of personal property without administration is the simplest form of probate in Florida and may be used when:
This process is only available in very limited situations, but when it applies, it can provide quick relief for surviving family members. I will evaluate whether this option applies and help you prepare the necessary documents to avoid unnecessary legal steps.
Florida probate law contains numerous procedural rules, filing deadlines, and technical requirements. Mistakes in the process can cause delays, disputes, or even personal liability for the executor.
Here are a few reasons why working with an experienced probate attorney like me is beneficial:
I prepare evidence, represent you at injunction hearings, and work to ensure that protective measures are enforced or appropriately challenged.
Unfortunately, probate can sometimes lead to disagreements among heirs or beneficiaries, especially when a will is unclear, questionable, or contested. Common probate disputes include:
We represent both personal representatives and beneficiaries in contested probate matters and strive to resolve disputes through mediation whenever possible. If necessary, I am fully prepared to litigate in court to protect your rights and interests.
Simple estates may take a few months, while complex estates or contested cases can take a year or more.
No. Assets held in joint ownership, trusts, or with valid beneficiary designations usually pass outside probate.
Florida intestacy laws determine who inherits when someone dies without a will. I can help guide you through this process.
While it’s possible in some simple cases, legal representation may be required and ensures you meet all requirements and avoid liability.
As a local probate lawyer in Fruit Cove, we are centrally located and available to handle matters in St. Johns, Clay, and Duval County.
You won’t be handed off to a case manager or paralegal—we have a team to assist you with your questions. We believe in giving each client personalized attention, consistent communication, and practical advice tailored to your unique circumstances.
If you have lost a loved one and need help settling their affairs, I invite you to contact my office for a confidential consultation. Whether you are serving as a personal representative, are a concerned heir, or simply need to understand your legal options, we are here to help.
Monday-Thursday: 9:00am-4:30pm
Friday: By appointment only
Saturday-Sunday: Closed
1629 Race Track Road
Suite 103
Saint Johns, FL 32259
9310 Old Kings Road South
Suite 302
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Florida Bar Profile Page