Florida Estate Planning & Probate Attorneys
Wills Trusts Probate Administration
Helping Florida families protect what matters most. Your family, your assets, and your legacy.
With offices in Weston, Ocala, and Naples, Bucelo Diaz Law provides experienced estate planning and probate representation to families throughout the state. Whether you need to create a revocable living trust, draft a will, establish powers of attorney, or navigate formal or summary probate administration, we guide you through every step of the process — personally, clearly, and efficiently.
Florida has unique legal requirements for estate planning, including homestead protections (Article X, §4, Florida Constitution) that restrict how your primary residence can be devised, and intestate succession laws (F.S. §732.101–732.111) that determine who inherits if you don’t have a valid plan. We help you get it right the first time.
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We focus on Estate Planning & Probate Administration in Florida
Estate Planning, Trusts & Wills
Revocable & irrevocable trusts, wills, powers of attorney, healthcare surrogates, lady bird deeds, and trust funding — customized to Florida law.
Probate Administration
Formal, summary, and ancillary administration — plus beneficiary representation, creditor claims, and real property transfers throughout Florida.
Our Process
At Bucelo Diaz Law, we believe in making the legal process clear, personalized, and stress-free. Here's what you can expect when working with our firm:
1
Initial Consultation
At Bucelo Diaz Law, we believe in making the legal process clear, personalized, and stress-free. Here's what you can expect when working with our firm:
2
Strategy & Engagement
Once we understand your situation, we outline a clear legal strategy. You’ll receive an engagement letter and fee structure so you know exactly what to expect—no surprises.
3
Information Gathering with Attorney
We work closely with you to collect the necessary documents and details. Our team ensures you understand each step, and we’re always available to answer your questions.
4
Document Drafting & Review
We prepare customized legal documents tailored to your unique circumstances. You’ll have the opportunity to review everything with your attorney before signing.
5
Execution & Follow-Through
Once signed, we handle the rest—filings, recordings, court proceedings, and everything in between. Our goal is to give you peace of mind from start to finish.
6
Ongoing Support
Legal needs evolve. We’re here when you need to update your plan, manage a trust, sell property, or navigate probate again in the future.
TRANSPARENT PRICING
How Much Does Estate Planning & Probate Cost in Florida?
We believe in transparent, upfront pricing. Every situation is different, but here are general ranges to help you plan. We provide an exact quote during your free consultation.
Estate Planning
$950 – $5,000+
- ✓ Basic will & power of attorney
- ✓ Revocable living trust package
- ✓ Healthcare surrogate & living will
- ✓ Trust funding guidance
- ✓ Lady bird deed preparation
Complexity, number of beneficiaries, and business interests affect final cost.
Probate Administration
$3,000 – $8,500+
- ✓ Summary administration ($4,500 flat fee)
- ✓ Formal administration
- ✓ Ancillary probate
- ✓ Creditor claim resolution
- ✓ Real property transfers
Summary administration starts at $3,000. Formal administration starts at $8,500+. Estate size, creditor disputes, and complexity affect final cost. Court filing fees are separate.
Every consultation is free. No obligation. No surprises.
We review your situation, explain your options, and provide a clear fee estimate before you commit to anything. Call (954) 399-1910 or contact us online.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Common Questions About Estate Planning & Probate in Florida
Do I need a trust or just a will in Florida?
It depends on your goals. A will goes through probate, which in Florida is a court-supervised process that can take 4–12 months and becomes public record. A revocable living trust avoids probate entirely, keeps your affairs private, and allows for faster distribution to beneficiaries. For most Florida families with real property or assets above $75,000, a trust-based plan is more efficient.
How long does probate take in Florida?
Summary administration (for estates of $150,000 or less, effective July 1, 2026 per CS/HB 1337) typically takes 4–8 weeks. Formal administration usually takes 6–12 months, depending on the complexity of the estate, number of creditors, and whether any beneficiaries contest the proceedings. A mandatory 3-month creditor claim period (F.S. §733.702) applies in formal administration.
What happens if I die without a will in Florida?
Florida’s intestate succession statutes (F.S. §732.101–732.111) determine who inherits your assets. Typically, your surviving spouse and children inherit, but the exact distribution depends on your family structure. Unmarried partners, stepchildren, and close friends receive nothing under intestate succession. The court appoints a personal representative, and the entire process becomes public.
How much does estate planning cost in Florida?
At Bucelo Diaz Law, estate planning packages generally range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on complexity. A basic will with power of attorney is at the lower end, while a comprehensive revocable living trust package with trust funding, healthcare directives, and lady bird deed preparation is at the higher end. We provide an exact quote during your free consultation.
What is a lady bird deed and should I have one?
A lady bird deed (enhanced life estate deed) is a tool commonly used in Florida that lets you transfer your homestead property to beneficiaries upon death without going through probate — while retaining full control during your lifetime. You can sell, mortgage, or revoke the deed at any time. It is one of the most cost-effective probate avoidance tools for Florida homeowners and preserves homestead tax exemptions.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes. Every consultation at Bucelo Diaz Law is free, with no obligation. We review your situation, explain your options, and provide a clear fee estimate before you commit to anything. You can schedule by calling (954) 399-1910, booking a phone consultation, or scheduling a Zoom consultation online.
ZOOM VIDEO CONFERENCE
Initial 30-minute Consultation
We understand your time is valuable, and convenience is key. Whether you're at home, at work, or on the go, you can receive experienced legal counsel and support without the need to visit our office. Our virtual meetings are designed to accommodate you! Receive the same high-quality, personalized legal counsel as you would in person.
