Probate

Guiding Families Through Probate with Care & Expertise

Losing a loved one is never easy, and the legal complexities of probate can add stress during an already difficult time. At Coastal Probate Trust & Elder Law, we provide compassionate and knowledgeable probate services in Pensacola, ensuring estates are managed efficiently, legally, and with as little burden as possible on your family.

Probate can be a complex process involving court filings, estate administration, debt settlement, and asset distribution. Without legal guidance, families may face delays, disputes, and unnecessary legal expenses. We guide you through every step to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution.

What Is Probate?

Probate is the court-supervised process of settling an estate after someone passes away. It ensures that debts are paid, assets are distributed properly, and legal matters are handled according to Florida law and the deceased’s wishes.

  • Validating wills and ensuring their instructions are followed

  • Identifying & distributing assets to beneficiaries

  • Resolving debts & taxes owed by the estate

  • Handling estates when no will exists (intestate succession)

How We Guide You Through the Probate Process

We help families navigate probate with clarity and efficiency, ensuring that legal requirements are met, disputes are avoided, and assets are distributed correctly.

  • Understanding Probate Administration

    Probate varies based on the complexity of the estate. We provide full legal support in:


    • Formal Probate Administration – Handling estates that require court oversight
    • Summary Administration – A simplified process for smaller estates
    • Ancillary Probate – Managing Florida assets when the deceased lived in another state

  • Settling Debts & Distributing Assets Efficiently

    One of the biggest concerns in probate is handling debts, taxes, and creditor claims while ensuring assets are properly distributed to beneficiaries. We assist with:


    • Identifying and notifying creditors to settle debts legally
    • Ensuring fair distribution of assets based on wills or Florida intestacy laws
    • Handling real estate, investments, and personal property transitions smoothly

  • Avoiding Probate Delays & Family Disputes

    Probate can become complicated if disputes arise over a will, assets, or executor responsibilities. Our legal team works to:


    • Resolve conflicts between heirs & beneficiaries quickly and efficiently
    • Address concerns over will validity and estate disputes
    • Ensure the personal representative follows Florida probate laws

  • Managing Estates Without a Will

    If a loved one passes without a will, their estate must be distributed under Florida intestacy laws. This process determines how assets are divided among family members. We help:


    • Determine rightful heirs under Florida law
    • Ensure court requirements are met for legal asset distribution
    • Protect surviving spouses and children from unnecessary complications

  • Helping Families Avoid Probate Through Planning

    For those looking to simplify or bypass probate in the future, estate planning can ensure assets pass smoothly to loved ones. We assist with:


    • Trust-based estate planning to avoid probate altogether
    • Beneficiary designations & asset structuring to minimize court involvement
    • Legal strategies to ensure family wealth is transferred seamlessly

Take the Next Step in Navigating Probate with Confidence