Probate And Estate Administration Attorneys With Decades Of Experience
Last updated on January 22, 2026
Losing a loved one is already an emotionally draining experience; the subsequent legal requirements of settling an estate can feel like an overwhelming burden. At Guffey & Kostun Law Group, all of our attorneys have over 25 years of experience helping families and fiduciaries through the probate and estate administration process. We serve as your steady guide through the court systems, allowing you the space to focus on what matters most.
Skilled Probate Attorneys Here To Guide You
Probate is the court-supervised process of identifying and gathering a deceased person’s assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries. This process is governed by specific state statutes that require accurate and timely legal filings.
Whether the deceased left a last will and testament, or passed away without one (intestate), our probate and estate lawyers can provide the detail-oriented representation needed to ensure the estate is settled correctly.
Common Probate Tracks In Florida
As a part of our estate settlement services, our estate administration lawyers offer skilled probate process guidance based on decades of experience. Our probate court representation services typically involve one of two primary paths based on the size and complexity of the estate:
- Formal administration: Required for larger estates or those with complex creditor issues. This involves the appointment of a personal representative.
- Summary administration: A streamlined process available for smaller estates (less than $75,000 in nonexempt assets) or cases where the decedent has been deceased for more than two years.
Comprehensive Estate Administration Services
Beyond the courtroom, we assist fiduciaries – including executors and trustees – in fulfilling their legal and ethical obligations. Our goal is to reduce risk and prevent litigation before it begins.
Our services include:
- Asset identification and valuation: Assisting with the inventory of real estate, business interests and personal property.
- Creditor coordination: Managing the legal notification of creditors and resolving outstanding claims against the estate.
- Tax compliance: Working with financial professionals to ensure final income and estate taxes are addressed.
- Beneficiary distribution: Ensuring the final transfer of assets is handled according to the will or trust instructions.
Why Professional Guidance Is Essential
Serving as a personal representative or trustee carries significant legal liability. Even an innocent mistake in asset distribution or debt repayment can lead to personal financial responsibility for the fiduciary.
Our firm provides a high-touch experience. We take the time to explain the nuances of the law in plain language, providing the calm guidance needed to resolve even the most complex estate-related responsibilities. We also recognize that many South Florida families have ties to the north, which is why our secondary office in Pennsylvania law is a valuable resource for multistate estate matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most of our probate and estate administration clients are in the role of trustee or administrator for the first time. As a result, we field a lot of questions right at the beginning of the process. Below are a few of the most common questions that we get.
How long does probate typically take?
In Florida, the duration of probate varies based on the complexity of the estate. A summary administration may take a few weeks to a few months, while a formal administration typically takes between six months and a year, depending on creditor claim periods and the sale of real property.
Can probate disputes be resolved outside of court?
Yes. While we are prepared to defend your interests in court, many disputes regarding asset distribution or fiduciary conduct can be resolved through mediation or negotiated settlements. We prioritize strategies that preserve family relationships and estate assets whenever possible.
What is the difference between probate and trust administration?
Probate is a public, court-supervised process for assets held in an individual’s name. Trust administration is a private process that occurs outside of court for assets held within a trust. Both require a high level of fiduciary care, which our firm is well-equipped to provide.
Call Us For Steady Guidance Through A Difficult Time
If you have been named a personal representative or are a beneficiary seeking clarity on your rights, we invite you to reach out to us. Call us at 561-954-3609 or fill out our online contact form.
We are committed to providing the reliable, professional counsel you need during this transition.