Real Estate
Our professional team of real estate attorneys offers comprehensive legal guidance across the spectrum of real estate transactions.
Probate & Trust Administration
At Pelaez Maas Law PLLC, we guide families through the probate process with clarity, care, and confidence. If you’ve been named Personal Representative of an estate in Homestead or across the State of Florida or have a family member who has passed without leaving a will, we provide expert legal assistance to settle the estate quickly and cost-effectively.
Probate Administration Services
When a loved one passes away, families are often left not only with grief but also with the responsibility of managing their affairs and we understand that handling legal matters during this time can feel overwhelming.
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process that ensures a loved one’s estate is properly handled. This process ensures that the person’s assets are located, safeguarded, and distributed in accordance with their Will or, if no Will exists, pursuant to Florida law. Probate also involves identifying heirs and beneficiaries, paying valid debts and taxes, transferring ownership of real estate, and resolving any disputes that may arise from any potential creditor claims.
Formal Administration
Formal Administration is the full probate process in Florida, required when an estate is worth more than $75,000 (not including exempt property like homestead) or if the person passed away less than two years ago. The court appoints a Personal Representative to manage the estate, pay debts, and distribute assets to heirs. Because it involves more steps and court oversight, Formal Administration usually takes longer than Summary Administration.
Summary Administration
Summary Administration is a quicker, simplified probate process available when an estate is valued at $75,000 or less or if the person has been deceased for more than two years. No Personal Representative is appointed—instead, the court issues an order to distribute the assets directly to the heirs or beneficiaries. This process is usually faster and less costly than Formal Administration.
At Pelaez Maas Law, we walk alongside families with care and respect, guiding personal representatives and heirs through every step of the probate process. We handle the complexities so that you can focus on your family during this difficult time. Whether your matter requires formal administration or summary administration, our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, knowledgeable, and results-driven representation.
