1. Gather Information
Collect all necessary documents and information about the deceased, including death certificates and documentation of estate assets and debts.
2. File a Petition With the Court
Apply to open probate in Broward County along with filing fees.
3. Notify Creditors
Make sure that any creditors are made aware of the probate proceedings so they can submit claims if applicable.
4. Appoint a Personal Representative
A personal representative must be appointed by the court to manage the probate process on behalf of the deceased’s estate.
5. Locate Assets & Pay Debts
The personal representative is responsible for locating all assets belonging to the deceased and paying any outstanding debts.
6. Prepare an Inventory
A detailed inventory of all assets in the deceased’s estate must be prepared and submitted to the court for final approval.
7. Distribute Assets
Once the court approves the inventory, the personal representative can begin to distribute assets according to instructions from the will or other documents left by the deceased.
8. Close the Estate
After all, assets have been distributed and the account settled, a final accounting must be filed with the court so that probate can be closed and complete.