Franklin County Probate Process for Residents & Non-Residents
Handling the estate of a loved one can be overwhelming, especially while coping with loss. Whether your loved one left a will or passed away intestate, the Florida Probate Law Firm, PLLC is here to guide families in Franklin County through the probate process with clarity, compassion, and efficiency.
Our practice focuses exclusively on probate and estate administration throughout Florida. We work with local families and out-of-state heirs, ensuring a smooth and legally sound administration of Florida estates.
Franklin County Clerk of Court
Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller
33 Market Street
Apalachicola, FL 32320
Understanding the Probate Process in Franklin County
Probate is a court-supervised legal process that ensures a decedent’s estate is properly administered. This includes validating a will (if one exists), identifying and gathering assets, resolving debts and claims, and distributing remaining property to beneficiaries or heirs.
In Franklin County, probate matters are handled by the Franklin County Circuit Court, located in Apalachicola, Florida.
Depending on the estate’s size and complexity, the appropriate probate proceeding may include:
-
Formal Administration – Required for estates valued above $75,000 or when a personal representative must be appointed.
-
Summary Administration – A simplified process available for smaller estates valued under $75,000 or when the decedent has been deceased for more than two years.
-
Disposition Without Administration – Available in limited circumstances for very small estates, typically used to reimburse funeral or final medical expenses.
Our attorneys help families determine which type of administration applies and manage every step required by the Franklin County Court..
What Assets Go Through Probate in Franklin County
Not all assets must pass through probate. Understanding the difference between probate and non-probate property can help reduce delays, costs, and complications for beneficiaries.
Assets that usually require probate include:
-
Real estate titled solely in the decedent’s name
-
Bank accounts without a payable-on-death (POD) or joint owner designation
-
Vehicles owned solely by the deceased
- Personal property such as jewelry, art, furniture, and collectibles
- Investment and brokerage accounts without named beneficiaries
- Business ownership interests or partnership shares
Assets that typically bypass probate include:
-
Jointly owned property with rights of survivorship
-
Life insurance policies with beneficiary designations
-
Retirement accounts (IRA, 401(k)) with named beneficiaries
-
Payable-on-death (POD) and transfer-on-death (TOD) accounts
-
Assets placed in a properly funded trust
The Florida Probate Law Firm, PLLC helps families identify probate and non-probate assets, ensuring each is handled correctly and efficiently.
If you need assistance with probate in Franklin County, Florida, contact the Florida Probate Law Firm for help through every step of the process.
Serving All of Franklin County
- Apalachicola
- Eastpoint
- Carrabelle
- St. George Island
- Lanark Village
- Alligator Point
If you need assistance with probate in Franklin County, Florida, contact the Florida Probate Law Firm for help through every step of the process.
