Probate

Florida has no state estate tax, but the federal exemption is $15 million in 2026, explained by Samantha Fitzgerald, Florida estate planning attorney and CPA

Does Florida Have an Estate Tax? The Taxes Florida Families Still Face After a Death

Does Florida Have an Estate Tax? No. Florida has not had a state estate tax since 2004, and Florida has no inheritance tax or state income tax either. But that…

Estate Planning Probate

What Happens to a Joint Bank Account When One Owner Dies in Florida?

When someone dies, their family may need immediate access to money for household expenses, funeral costs, and other obligations. But what happens when the deceased person’s name is on a…

Person completing a beneficiary change form for a life insurance policy as part of Florida estate planning

Estate Planning Probate Wills & Trusts

Are Named Beneficiaries Enough to Avoid Probate? (Not Always — Here’s Why)

You did the responsible thing. You sat down, filled out the forms, and named your children as beneficiaries on your bank accounts, life insurance policy, and retirement accounts. You figured…

Probate

What Is Summary Administration Probate in Florida?

When a loved one passes away in Florida, the last thing you want is a long, expensive court process. The good news: many Florida estates qualify for a faster, simpler…

A hourglass sand timer on a table along with a notebook

Probate

Florida Probate Doesn’t Have to Take a Year: What You Need to Know About Summary Administration

Introduction When most people hear the word “probate,” they immediately think: long, expensive, and painful. And honestly? That reputation isn’t always wrong. But here’s what many Floridians don’t know: probate…

tax blocks on desk of papers with calculator

Probate

Does a Deceased Estate Need to File a Tax Return in Florida?

A Complete 2026 Guide to Estate Tax Filings, Deadlines, and Common Mistakes When a loved one passes away, taxes are usually the last thing on your mind. Between grief, funeral…

Probate

What Are the Most Common Mistakes in Florida Probate?

5 Costly Errors Personal Representatives Must Avoid When someone is named personal representative of a loved one’s estate, it often feels straightforward, at least at first. But reality hits quickly.…

Probate

Do All Estates Have to Go Through Probate in Florida?

Key Takeaways: Probate in Florida The belief that every estate must go through probate in Florida is a common misconception. Important points to remember include: Probate only applies to assets…

Estate Planning Probate

Florida Probate Explained: Real Case Studies, Probate Process, and How to Avoid Probate

Key Takeaways • Probate is required for assets owned solely in a decedent’s name without beneficiaries • Summary administration may be available for smaller estates • Formal administration is used…

Probate

What Happens If You Don’t File Probate in Florida?

Key Takeaways: Filing Probate in Florida If probate is not filed in Florida, serious legal and financial problems can arise. Remember these key points: A will has no legal authority…

About The Firm

Since 2011, SJF Law Group has been helping clients protect their families with estate planning, probate & trust administration. We pride ourselves on combining the personalized service and attention of a boutique firm, with the talent and legal acumen of a large firm.

Our Awards

GOLD – Estate Law

GOLD – Law Firm

SILVER – Woman-Owned Business

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Probate

Does Florida Have an Estate Tax? The Taxes Florida Families Still Face After a Death

What Happens to a Joint Bank Account When One Owner Dies in Florida?

Are Named Beneficiaries Enough to Avoid Probate? (Not Always — Here’s Why)

What Is Summary Administration Probate in Florida?

Florida Probate Doesn’t Have to Take a Year: What You Need to Know About Summary Administration

Does a Deceased Estate Need to File a Tax Return in Florida?

What Are the Most Common Mistakes in Florida Probate?

Do All Estates Have to Go Through Probate in Florida?

Florida Probate Explained: Real Case Studies, Probate Process, and How to Avoid Probate

What Happens If You Don’t File Probate in Florida?

Voted GOLD for Estate Law by South Florida Families – Sun Sentinel 2026

About The Firm

Our Awards

About the Firm

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