Experienced Probate Attorneys Serving Pensacola, FL, and the Gulf Coast
At Moorhead Law Group, we understand that losing a loved one is never easy. On top of the emotional toll, families are often left with the responsibility of managing their loved one’s estate through the probate process. Our Pensacola probate attorneys are here to guide you with knowledge, compassion, and decades of combined legal experience.
We proudly serve clients throughout Escambia County, Santa Rosa County, Okaloosa County, and the entire Gulf Coast region, helping personal representatives, executors, and beneficiaries navigate probate efficiently and effectively.
Why Work With a Pensacola Probate Attorney?
Probate is the court-supervised process of settling a deceased person’s estate. In Florida, probate can range from a straightforward proceeding for small estates to a complex legal matter involving real estate, businesses, and contested assets.
Without professional guidance, probate can be confusing and time-consuming. Our attorneys provide trusted support by:
- Explaining Florida probate law in clear terms
- Filing petitions and documents with the Escambia County probate court
- Managing deadlines to prevent costly delays
- Protecting executors and personal representatives from personal liability
- Resolving inheritance disputes quickly and fairly
Our goal is to remove as much stress from the process as possible so you can focus on your family.
Understanding the Florida Probate Process
Every estate is different, but probate in Florida generally follows these steps:
- Filing a Petition – Probate begins by filing a petition in the county where the deceased lived, such as Escambia County Probate Court in Pensacola.
- Appointing a Personal Representative – The court names an executor (also called a personal representative) to manage the estate.
- Inventorying Assets – The representative identifies and values all estate assets, such as real property, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings.
- Notifying Creditors & Paying Debts – Creditors are notified and outstanding debts or taxes must be settled.
- Distributing Assets to Beneficiaries – After debts are resolved, the remaining assets are transferred to heirs in accordance with the will or Florida intestacy laws.
- Closing the Estate – The court formally closes the estate once all duties are complete.
Because each step must meet legal requirements, having a knowledgeable probate attorney in Pensacola helps prevent mistakes and keeps the process moving forward.
Types of Probate in Florida
Not every estate requires the same type of probate. Our firm routinely handles:
Formal Administration – The standard process for larger or complex estates.
Summary Administration – A simplified process for smaller estates, usually when the total value is under $75,000 or the decedent has been deceased for more than two years.
Ancillary Probate – Required when a non-Florida resident owned property in Pensacola or elsewhere in Florida.
Our attorneys will determine the right process for your case and provide step-by-step guidance.
Handling Probate Disputes and Litigation
Unfortunately, disagreements sometimes arise during probate, especially when significant assets or family conflicts are involved. Common disputes include:
- Contested wills
- Disagreements over executor duties
- Claims by creditors
- Challenges to beneficiary rights
Our attorneys have extensive experience in probate litigation and will protect your interests in and out of court. Whether through negotiation or trial, we work toward solutions that preserve family relationships while safeguarding legal rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Probate in Florida
How long does probate take in Pensacola?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the estate. Simple estates may be resolved in 6–9 months, while contested or high-value estates may take over a year.
Do all estates require probate in Florida?
No. Some assets, such as jointly owned property, life insurance with named beneficiaries, and retirement accounts, may pass outside of probate.
Can probate be avoided?
In some cases, yes. Tools like trusts, joint ownership, and beneficiary designations can help avoid probate. However, once someone passes away, the estate must follow Florida law regarding probate.
Where is the probate court in Pensacola?
Probate cases in Pensacola are typically handled through the Escambia County Clerk of Court, located in downtown Pensacola.
Contact a Pensacola Probate Attorney Today
If you need help with probate in Pensacola or anywhere along the Gulf Coast, turn to the experienced attorneys at Moorhead Law Group. Our team combines extensive legal knowledge with compassionate client service, helping families honor their loved one’s wishes while protecting their rights.
Call us today at (850) 202-8522 or complete our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation with a probate lawyer.