Property owned by a person at death which does not pass to others by designation or ownership - such as life insurance policies and payable-on-death bank accounts - may be subject to the probate process. Any beneficiary or creditor can initiate probate in Florida, with the probate process normally beginning with the filing of the original will with the court.

Those eligible to serve as personal representative for a Florida estate include:

♦ A bank or trust company operating in Florida

♦ Any Florida resident

♦ A spouse or close relative (does not need to be resident of Florida)*

*If you are unrelated to the deceased and are not a Florida resident, you cannot serve as a personal representative.

You can get more more information on The Florida Bar's Probate section.

The Law Office of Ronald J. Conte is available to help you with probate matters. During this difficult and emotional time, it helps to have a qualified attorney to advise you regarding the probate process. Please consider calling Ron Conte if you have any questions or need help dealing with the probate process in Florida.

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