Florida Ancillary Probate Attorney

If your loved one lived out of state but owned property in Florida, you may need ancillary probate to transfer those Florida-based assets. At De Paz Law, we assist personal representatives, executors, trustees, and attorneys nationwide with the Florida portion of an estate - handling the local filings, court requirements, and asset transfers efficiently and professionally.

What Is Ancillary Probate?

Ancillary probate is a secondary probate proceeding required when someone passes away while living in another state but owns property or assets located in Florida. This often involves:

  • Florida real estate (condos, vacation homes, investment properties)
  • Bank accounts or financial assets held in Florida
  • Personal property or business interests located in Florida

Example scenario:
If your father lived in New York but owned a retirement condo in Clearwater, that property cannot be transferred through the New York probate alone. Florida law requires a local ancillary probate to legally transfer ownership.



This is a common situation for snowbirds, retirees, and out-of-state families with Florida property.

How De Paz Law Helps Out-of-State Executors & Attorneys

Handling Florida probate from another state can feel overwhelming - but it doesn't have to be. De Paz Law regularly partners with:


  • Out-of-state personal representatives
  • Law firms handling the primary probate
  • Executors managing multi-state estates
  • Trustees needing assistance with Florida assets

We streamline the process by managing all Florida-specific steps, including:


  • Preparing and filing Florida ancillary probate petitions
  • Authenticating the out-of-state will
  • Coordinating with the primary estate attorney
  • Communicating with the court and local agencies
  • Managing all Florida asset transfers

Most clients can complete the entire Florida process without traveling to the state. We provide clear communication, quick turnaround, and efficient case handling designed for busy professionals and families managing estates from afar.

The Florida Ancillary Probate Process

While every case is unique, Florida ancillary probate typically involves:

Reviewing Primary Probate Documents

We coordinate with the out-of-state attorney to gather certified copies of court filings, wills, and relevant orders.

Authenticating the Will in Florida

Florida requires specific verification steps to accept an out-of-state will.

Appointment of a Personal Representative

Florida may require a qualified personal representative or a local agent depending on the situation.

Identifying and Managing Florida Assets

We assist with real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, or other Florida-based property.

Transferring the Assets

Once approved, we ensure the assets are either transferred to beneficiaries or back to the primary estate.

Ancillary probate is often faster than a full probate, and in some cases, summary procedures are available for smaller estates.

Why Local Counsel Matters

Florida probate rules are strict, and the process varies by county. Having an attorney based in Pinellas County gives you:


  • Local court familiarity
  • Faster coordination with Florida agencies
  • Knowledge of local procedures and requirements
  • A reliable partner for primary attorneys across the U.S.

Attorneys nationwide trust De Paz Law to handle the Florida portion of their clients' estates - knowing we'll manage the process professionally and efficiently.

Speed, Efficiency & Clear Communication

We know that ancillary probate is often time-sensitive. Our team prioritizes:


  • Fast document preparation
  • Clear guidance at each step
  • Prompt responses to executors and attorneys
  • Streamlined coordination with the primary estate
  • Efficient case closure once Florida assets are transferred

Our goal is to reduce delays and eliminate unnecessary burdens for families and out-of-state counsel.

Scales of justice, a black icon on a white background.

Need a Florida probate partner?

Whether you're an executor managing an out-of-state estate or an attorney seeking local counsel, we're here to help.