Statewide Probate
Attorneys in Florida
Attorneys in Florida
Bradford County Probate Court Guide (2026)
Navigating probate in Starke and the surrounding communities of Lawtey, Hampton, and Brooker requires adherence to the specific standards of the Eighth Judicial Circuit of Florida. Florida Probate Law Group provides specialized representation, ensuring your case meets the mandatory checklist requirements that are unique to the Bradford County Court system.
🏛️ Bradford County Courthouse & Clerk Information
Probate filings are managed by the Bradford County Clerk of the Circuit Court.
- Courthouse Name: Bradford County Courthouse
- Address: 945 North Temple Avenue, Starke, FL 32091
- Clerk of Court: Stacie D. Harvey
- Probate Department Phone: (904) 966-6280
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
[!IMPORTANT]
Electronic Filing Note: Per 2026 8th Circuit protocols, all probate petitions must be submitted via the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal. Original Wills must still be physically deposited with the Clerk in Starke within 10 days of the decedent’s passing.
⚖️ Judicial Oversight: The 8th Circuit Standard
As of January 2026, probate matters in Bradford County are primarily overseen by Judge George M. Wright.
- Mandatory Checklists: Under Administrative Order 9.03 (v2026-1), attorneys are required to submit a verified Probate Checklist with every proposed order.
- Judicial Assistant (JA): Anita Simoneaux (Email:
simoneauxa@circuit8.org). - Proposed Orders: Must be submitted in Microsoft Word format directly to the JA via email or the e-portal. The 8th Circuit no longer accepts paper orders.
💰 2026 Bradford County Filing Fees
Current court costs for opening a probate estate, not including convenience fees:
| Action | Filing Fee |
| Formal Administration | $400.00 |
| Summary Administration (Estates > $1,000) | **$345.00** |
| Summary Administration (Estates < $1,000) | **$235.00** |
| Caveat by Interested Party | $41.00 |
❓ Bradford County Probate FAQ
What is the difference between Summary and Formal probate in Starke?
Summary Administration is a “fast-track” process for estates with non-exempt assets under $75,000 or where the decedent has been deceased for over two years. Formal Administration is required for larger estates or cases needing a Personal Representative to manage ongoing litigation (such as a wrongful death claim).
Does Bradford County require a “Statement of Claim” for creditors?
Yes. In a Formal Administration, a Notice to Creditors must be published in a local newspaper like The Bradford County Telegraph. Creditors then have 90 days to file a Statement of Claim in the court registry.
Are hearings held in person at the Starke courthouse?
In 2026, most uncontested probate hearings are conducted via Zoom. However, evidentiary hearings (where testimony is taken) may require an in-person appearance at the North Temple Avenue courthouse. Our firm handles all virtual scheduling so you don’t have to.
How do I handle a “Disposition of Personal Property” in Bradford County?
This is a “non-probate” process for very small estates (reimbursing funeral expenses). You can file this pro-se at the Clerk’s office if the assets are less than the cost of the funeral. For all other matters, Florida law requires an attorney.
📍 Why Hire Florida Probate Law Group for Bradford County?
Our firm’s founding partner, R. Nadine David, previously served as a staff attorney for the 8th Judicial Circuit. We have “insider” knowledge of exactly how Bradford County judges review files.
- Flat-Fee Certainty: We provide all-inclusive pricing for uncontested Bradford County cases.
- Checklist Precision: We ensure every 8th Circuit checklist is perfect, preventing the common “Deficiency Notices” that delay other firms.
- Virtual Convenience: We manage your entire case from Gainesville or Ocala, serving families worldwide who have inherited property in Starke.