In Starke, Florida, probate is the process through which a Court determines if a will is valid or not.

As part of the probate procedure, the court in Starke, Florida will determine the validity of the will, inventory the decedent's assets and debts, then, assuming everything is found to be in order, distribute the estate according to the will.

The executor of the estate is often named in the will. If not, the probate court in Starke, Florida will name will appoint a person to serve as executor. This is normally the person who stands to inherit the most under the will.

The executor is the person who has to get the ball rolling on the probate process, and essentially serves as a living symbol of the decedent's estate. It is their job to defend the estate from debtors (if a legitimate defense for the debt exists, of course), and wind up any legal proceedings that the decedent might have been immersed in. If an executor needs to be appointed, a court normally chooses the person who will inherit the most if the will is given effect, since that person will have the most inducement to carry out the duties of the executor.

Duties of the Executor in Starke, Florida

The executor has many duties with respect to the will. First, it is his or her job to actually initiate probate proceedings, which often must be finished before the will is given effect.

They further are required to provide notice to the people with a direct interest in the estate that the decedent has died, normally by filing a death certificate.

If the decedent was even somewhat well-off financially, it's likely that they'll have considerable amounts of both debts and assets. The executor is tasked with formulating an accurate accounting of the debts and assets of the estate, so as much of the decedent's debts can be paid off as possible.

Finally, executors have to actually put forth the effort to show that a will is valid. As the sole legal representative of the estate, this is their job, and is required for them to inherit, giving them an incentive.

How Can A Starke, Florida Lawyer Help?

Because of the intricacies involved in probate, it would be a brilliant idea to consult with and retain a Starke, Florida attorney who specializes in probate, especially if you are the executor of an estate.