Probate And Trust Administration
Probate and Trust Administration
Guiding Families Through Probate and Trust Administration with Confidence and Compassion.
Dealing with the legal process after losing a loved one can be overwhelming. At The Law Office of Jed A. Stabler, P.A., we help clients across West Palm Beach navigate probate and trust administration with clarity, care, and legal precision.
Whether you’re a personal representative, executor, or trustee, we ensure everything is handled legally and respectfully, giving you peace of mind when you need it most.
About Us
Why Probate and Trust Administration Matters
Probate and trust administration are essential steps to settle a person’s affairs after they pass away. These legal processes ensure assets are properly transferred, debts and taxes are resolved, and beneficiaries receive what was intended.
Without knowledgeable legal support, families can face confusion, delays, and even disputes, especially when no clear plan is left behind. We step in to simplify the process and guide you through each step, making sure everything is completed correctly and according to Florida law.
Whether you’re navigating probate court or managing a trust outside of probate, having the right legal partner makes a stressful time significantly easier.
Our Probate and Trust Services
Formal and Summary Probate
We represent clients through both full (formal) probate and summary administration, helping you determine which option is appropriate and handling all court filings, asset reports, and required notices.
Trust Administration
If your loved one created a revocable or irrevocable trust, we support the trustee in carrying out their duties, including beneficiary notices, asset management, and trust distributions.
Asset Identification and Distribution
We help identify, locate, value, and distribute estate assets — such as real estate, bank accounts, and personal property — in compliance with the law and the decedent's wishes.
Creditor and Debt Resolution
We assist with publishing required legal notices, responding to creditor claims, settling debts, and ensuring the estate remains protected from unnecessary liability.
Probate Disputes and Conflict Resolution
Should disagreements arise between beneficiaries or heirs, we offer legal guidance to address disputes efficiently and minimize family tension whenever possible.
Why Choose Us
Why Choose Our Firm?
At The Law Office of Jed A. Stabler, P.A., we know that probate and trust matters are deeply personal. That’s why we offer more than just legal documents; we provide steady, reliable support during a difficult time.
Experience That Makes a Difference
With more than a decade of experience in West Palm Beach, we've handled a wide range of probate and trust cases, from straightforward filings to complex, multi-heir disputes.
Personalized, Step-by-Step Guidance
We understand that this may be your first time dealing with an estate. We walk you through the process, explain every step, and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Timely and Transparent Communication
You won't be left wondering what's next. We respond quickly, explain your responsibilities clearly, and keep your case moving.
Trusted by the Local Community
Our firm has earned the trust of families across Palm Beach County by being responsive, professional, and results-driven. We value relationships and strive to provide lasting peace of mind.
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is probate, and when does it apply in Florida?
Probate is the legal process that follows someone’s passing to ensure their debts are paid and their remaining assets are properly transferred to beneficiaries. In Florida, probate is usually required when the deceased owned assets solely in their name without a beneficiary or a joint owner listed.
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How long does probate take in West Palm Beach?
Most probate cases in Florida take anywhere from six months to over a year. Simple estates may be wrapped up faster, especially if summary administration applies, but more complex estates, or any case with family disputes or missing documents, can take longer.
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What types of assets go through probate in Florida?
Assets that are solely in the decedent’s name with no joint owner or named beneficiary typically go through probate. This can include real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, and personal property unless they were held in a trust or otherwise exempt.
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Can probate be avoided with a trust?
Yes, a properly funded living trust can bypass the probate process entirely. When your assets are titled in the name of your trust, they can be passed directly to your beneficiaries without court involvement, saving time, money, and stress for your loved ones.
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What does a trustee do after someone dies?
A trustee is responsible for managing and distributing the assets in a trust after the grantor’s death. This includes notifying beneficiaries, paying any remaining bills or taxes, maintaining records, and carrying out the trust’s instructions without needing court supervision.
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What happens if someone dies without a will in Florida?
If no will exists, Florida’s intestate succession laws determine who inherits the estate. Typically, assets go to the closest relatives in a set order, starting with a spouse and children, then parents, siblings, or extended family.
Contact Us
Reach Out To Us
The Law Office of Jed A. Stabler, P.A.