Statewide Probate
Attorneys in Florida
Attorneys in Florida
Bay County Probate Court Guide (2026)
Navigating probate in Panama City requires an attorney who understands the local protocols of the 14th Judicial Circuit. Whether your family is dealing with a Formal Administration for a large estate or a Summary Administration following a loss in Lynn Haven or Panama City Beach, our firm provides the local expertise needed to move through the Bay County Clerk’s office efficiently.
🏛️ Bay County Courthouse & Clerk Information
Probate matters are handled at the main courthouse in downtown Panama City.
- Courthouse Name: Bay County Courthouse
- Address: 300 East 4th Street, Panama City, FL 32401
- Clerk of Court: Bill Kinsaul
- Probate Department Phone: (850) 763-9061 (Option 3)
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
[!IMPORTANT]
2026 Traffic Alert: Ongoing roadwork on 4th Street near the courthouse may impact arrival times for in-person hearings. We recommend Zoom hearings when allowed and utilizing theFlorida Courts E-Filing Portalfor all document submissions to avoid delays.
⚖️ 14th Judicial Circuit Probate Procedures
Bay County follows the administrative guidelines set by the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit (serving Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, and Washington counties).
- AI-Generated Evidence: Per Administrative Order 2025-00-09, the 14th Circuit has strict disclosure requirements for any AI-generated technologies used in legal filings or evidence. Our firm does not use AI generated evidence or pleadings.
- Letters of Administration: In Formal Administrations, Judge William S. Henry or the presiding probate judge will issue Letters of Administration only after a verified inventory is filed.
- Virtual Hearings: Most probate status conferences are held via Zoom. You must obtain the Meeting ID from the specific Judicial Assistant (JA) assigned to your case.
💰 2026 Bay County Filing Fees
Estimates based on current 14th Circuit fee schedules (not including convenience fees):
| Action | Estimated Fee |
| Formal Administration | $400.00 |
| Summary Administration (Estates > $1,000) | **$345.00** |
| Summary Administration (Estates < $1,000) | **$235.00** |
| Opening Safe Deposit Box | $42.00 |
❓ Bay County Probate FAQ
The following questions are frequently asked of the Bay County Clerk. Our firm provides these answers to assist in your initial research.
Do I need an attorney for probate in Bay County?
In Florida, nearly all probate personal representatives must be represented by an attorney. The only exceptions are “Disposition without Administration” (very small estates) or if the personal representative is the sole beneficiary.
How long does probate take in Panama City?
A Summary Administration in Bay County can often be completed in 2-4 months. A Formal Administration typically takes 6–12 months, depending on creditor periods and the complexity of assets like real estate in Panama City Beach.
Where do I file a Will if the person died in Bay County?
The original Will must be deposited with the Bay County Clerk of Court within 10 days of learning of the death. This is done at the 4th Street Courthouse in Panama City.
Can I handle Bay County probate if I live out of state?
Yes. Because our firm utilizes the 14th Circuit’s electronic filing system and Zoom hearings, we can complete the entire probate process without you ever needing to travel to Florida.
📍 Why Choose Florida Probate Law Group for Bay County?
We have extensive experience working with the Bay County Clerk’s Office and the judges of the 14th Circuit.
- Statewide Reach: We handle cases in Panama City, Mexico Beach, and Youngstown.
- Flat Fee Services: Our firm charges flat fees for uncontested probate cases.
- Fast-Track Summary Probate: We have a highly efficient process for “Small Estate” Summary Administration to get assets transferred to heirs as quickly as possible.