When someone close to you passes away, it can be difficult to know what to do. While you are grieving your loss, our attorneys can provide trusted advice and guidance regarding your loved one's estate. At The Law Office of Silverman, Mack & Associates, our goal is to ensure that your loved one's estate is administered according to his or her final wishes in an efficient and cost-effective manner. We will manage the process for you, working to protect the estate's assets, minimize estate taxes and prevent the various disputes that can arise during probate.
You Need A Florida Probate Administration Lawyer
Under Florida law, most forms of probate in Florida require an attorney, and the attorney you choose can significantly impact the efficiency and outcome of your case.
At The Law Office of Silverman, Mack & Associates, our goal is to protect your loved one's assets. Often this will mean making payments on a home, car or other collateral assets. We will work with you to gather information on your loved one's assets and debts, to ensure that the estate is protected and administered in an efficient and affordable manner.
Following are some key points to remember if your loved one has recently passed:
- Most of the information needed will probably be found by collecting the decedent's mail and reviewing personal records.
- In Florida, the original will must be filed in the county where the deceased person lived within 10 days of death. It is important to keep a copy of the will.
- If you are the potential personal representative, you will have a fiduciary responsibility to act in the best interest of the estate. This means, you should not begin to sell the decedent's possessions before speaking to an attorney.
- Before you pay off your family member's credit cards, medical bills or other debts, contact our attorneys because there is a process for dealing with creditor's claims.
Should I Pay My Loved One's Bills?
Many family members of those who have died come to us with questions about paying creditors. This may seem like a top priority, especially if creditors are calling or sending bills to your loved one's home. Know that you do not need to pay the creditors right away. Your first step should be to hire a knowledgeable probate attorney.