West Palm Beach Probate Administration Lawyer

Handling an estate can be a complicated and time-consuming task. At Doane & Doane, we provide expert support to simplify the probate process, ensuring that everything is handled efficiently and in compliance with Florida law. Our probate administration services include:

  • Verifying the Validity of the Will: We assist in proving the authenticity of the deceased’s will in court, ensuring it is accepted and legally enforceable.
  • Identifying and Inventorying Estate Assets: Our team helps personal representatives identify and catalog all assets, including real estate, financial accounts, and personal property, to ensure nothing is overlooked.
  • Appraising Property: We assist in obtaining accurate property valuations for estate assets, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
  • Managing Estate Debts and Taxes: Our attorneys help manage estate debts and taxes, paying valid claims and handling any disputes. We also ensure that all tax filings are submitted correctly and on time to avoid penalties.
  • Distributing Assets per the Will’s Instructions: Once debts and taxes are settled, we guide the distribution of estate assets according to the deceased’s wishes outlined in the will.
  • Transferring Property Titles and Ownership: We assist in transferring ownership of estate property, including real estate and vehicles, to the rightful beneficiaries in a legally proper manner.

Trust Administration Attorney in West Palm Beach

Trust administration involves managing and distributing assets held in a trust according to the terms of the trust document. Trustees have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. Our attorneys help ensure that trust assets are properly managed and distributed. Our trust administration services include:

  • Locating and Valuing Trust Assets: We assist trustees in identifying, valuing, and protecting trust assets, ensuring they are accurately accounted for.
  • Managing Trust Property: Our team provides guidance to trustees on how to effectively manage trust assets, ensuring they are handled according to the terms of the trust.
  • Distributing Assets to Beneficiaries: We advise trustees on how to distribute assets to beneficiaries according to the trust’s instructions, ensuring compliance with the trust’s terms.
  • Minimizing Trustee Liability: We provide support to trustees to help them fulfill their fiduciary duties and avoid personal liability for mistakes or mismanagement of the trust.

Personal Representative Probate Services in West Palm Beach

The personal representative, or executor, plays a crucial role in managing the decedent’s estate according to Florida law. Our attorneys assist personal representatives with their responsibilities, including:

  • Notifying Interested Parties: We ensure that proper notifications are sent to creditors, beneficiaries, and other interested parties, as required by law.
  • Locating and Safeguarding Assets: We assist with securing and managing the decedent’s assets until they can be distributed.
  • Handling Claims Against the Estate: Our team helps personal representatives evaluate and address claims from creditors, ensuring that valid claims are paid while resolving disputes efficiently.
  • Distributing Assets and Closing the Estate: After settling debts and taxes, we help distribute assets according to the will or Florida law, and assist in closing the estate once all obligations are fulfilled.

Fiduciary Accounting

Fiduciary accounting involves preparing and submitting detailed financial reports for estates and trusts. Our firm ensures that trustees and personal representatives maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and providing transparency for beneficiaries and interested parties.

Fiduciary Tax Compliance

Fiduciaries are responsible for ensuring that all tax filings for estates, trusts, and probate matters are completed correctly and on time. Our attorneys assist fiduciaries in preparing and filing the necessary tax returns, ensuring compliance with federal and state tax laws and reducing the risk of penalties or tax issues.

Investment Research and Due Diligence

Managing investments is often part of a fiduciary’s duties when overseeing a trust or estate. At Doane & Doane, we provide thorough research and due diligence services to help fiduciaries make informed, sound investment decisions that align with the goals of the trust or estate.

Residency and Domicile Issues

Issues related to residency and domicile can affect estate planning and tax obligations. Our attorneys help clients address complex residency issues, including:

  • IRS Change of Address: We assist clients in filing IRS Form 8822 to ensure they continue to receive important IRS communications and tax refunds after moving.
  • Homestead Exemption: Florida offers significant property tax benefits for primary residences. Our attorneys help clients understand how these benefits apply to their estates, including any restrictions on property transfers at death.
  • Establishing Florida Domicile: To qualify for Florida’s Homestead Exemption and other benefits, clients must establish Florida as their legal domicile. We guide clients through the process of declaring Florida as their primary domicile and addressing any residency concerns.

Why Choose Doane & Doane?

The probate and trust administration process can be challenging, and any mistakes can lead to costly disputes or legal complications. By choosing Doane & Doane, you gain access to experienced attorneys who specialize in both probate and trust administration. We ensure that all aspects of the process are handled efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with the law, minimizing risk and making the experience as smooth as possible. Trust us to manage your estate with the expertise, care, and attention it deserves.

January 6, 2025

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Doane Doane, P A is a probate estate planning law firm in West Palm Beach, providing financial legal services throughout Florida Contact our Attorney!