Statewide Probate
Attorneys in Florida
Attorneys in Florida
Broward County Probate Court Guide (2026)
Navigating the legal system in South Florida—from the bustling streets of Fort Lauderdale to the residential communities of Hollywood and Pembroke Pines—requires an attorney who understands the high-volume standards of the 17th Judicial Circuit.
At Florida Probate Law Group, we simplify this complex journey. For a deep dive into the legal requirements, timelines, and asset rules, we recommend starting with our Complete Guide to Florida Probate. Our statewide probate attorneys specialize in moving cases through the Broward County Clerk’s office using a predictable, all-inclusive flat-fee model.
🏛️ Broward County Courthouse & Clerk Info
Probate matters are centralized at the main judicial complex in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
- Courthouse : Broward County Central Courthouse
- Clerk of Court: Brenda D. Forman
- Probate Division: West Building, 3rd Floor, Room 03160
- Probate Phone: (954) 831-7154
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Parking in 2026: The public parking garage is located at 540 SE 3rd Avenue. Security lines at the Central Courthouse can be long; we recommend arriving at least 30 minutes prior to any scheduled in-person appearance.
⚖️ 17th Judicial Circuit: Local Requirements
The 17th Circuit is highly automated but strictly procedural. To avoid “Deficiency Notices,” your filings must adhere to these 2026 standards:
- Mandatory Smart Forms: Broward requires specific “Smart Forms” for nearly all probate petitions. Submitting a standard PDF that lacks these interactive elements will result in an immediate rejection by the Clerk.
- E-Portal Filing: All proposed orders must be submitted via the 17th Circuit’s Probate ePortal.
- Uniform Motion Calendar (UMC): Most simple probate matters (like a Petition to Sell Real Property) are handled during UMC, which are short, 5-minute hearings conducted via Zoom.
💰 2026 Broward County Filing Fees
Current court costs for the 17th Judicial Circuit (not including convenience fees):
| Estate Type | Filing Fee |
| Formal Administration (Estate > $75k) | **$401.00** |
| Summary Administration (Estate > $1,000) | **$346.00** |
| Summary Administration (Estate < $1,000) | **$236.00** |
| Notice of Trust | $42.00 |
❓ Broward County Probate FAQ
How long does it take to open an estate in Fort Lauderdale?
With our firm’s streamlined process, we can typically have an estate opened and a Personal Representative appointed within approximately 2-4 weeks, provided intake forms are returned by the client in a timely manner.
Can I use a flat-fee attorney for a Broward case?
Yes. We believe in financial certainty. While many South Florida firms charge an hourly rate or a percentage of the estate (often 3%), we offer an all-inclusive flat fee for uncontested matters. This preserves more of the inheritance for the family.
Where is the original Will filed?
The original Will must be physically delivered to the Broward County Clerk of Court within 10 days of death. Our firm handles this transition, ensuring the Will is properly “deposited” and cross-referenced with your digital case file.
📍 Why Hire Florida Probate Law Group for Broward?
Our firm’s foundation is built on years of litigation and thousands of successfully closed estates.
- Judicial Insight: Founded by a former staff attorney for the Florida courts, we know exactly what Broward judges look for in a petition.
- Virtual Convenience: You never have to step foot in the Fort Lauderdale courthouse. We manage 100% of the process remotely for families worldwide.
- Flat Fees: Our flat fees include all attorney time, publications, postage, etc.