Punta Gorda Probate Lawyer: Expert Estate Administration in Charlotte County

Navigating the legal transition of an estate in Punta Gorda requires more than just general legal knowledge; it requires a firm with deep roots in Florida’s probate courts and a mastery of the 20th Judicial Circuit. Whether your family is dealing with assets in Burnt Store Isles, Punta Gorda Isles, or Deep Creek, our team provides the sophisticated counsel necessary to settle affairs with precision.

Unmatched Experience and Qualifications

Florida Probate Law Group is led by founding partners R. Nadine David and Charles “Cary” David, both honors graduates of Stetson University College of Law. Our firm’s reputation is built on extensive experience and a singular focus on probate and estate matters.

Our founding partners bring a high level of academic and professional excellence to every case, ensuring that even the most complex estates are handled with the scrutiny they deserve. This deep-seated expertise allows us to provide clients with insider judicial insight, anticipating court requirements and proactively addressing potential hurdles before they cause delays.

The Advantage of 20th Circuit Insight in 2026

Success in Charlotte County probate depends on understanding the specific procedural expectations of the local bench, including judges such as Judge Shannon H. McFee and Judge Donald H. Mason.

Mandatory Checklist Compliance: The 20th Judicial Circuit utilizes rigorous checklists for all probate filings. Our firm ensures every “Predicate Document” is perfectly aligned with 2026 digital filing standards, preventing the “Deficiency Notices” that often stall less experienced firms.
Direct E-Portal Submissions: We leverage the latest e-filing technology to submit proposed orders directly to the court’s queue, ensuring your case reaches the judge’s desk without unnecessary administrative delays.
Affordable Flat Fees: We believe in financial transparency. Instead of charging a percentage of the estate, we provide affordable flat fees so families know their legal costs upfront.

For a comprehensive breakdown of the legal steps required, please see The Complete Guide to Florida Probate and our specific Charlotte County Probate Guide.

100% Remote Probate: Modern Efficiency

We recognize that many family members and executors live outside of Southwest Florida or have demanding schedules. Probate administration can be completed remotely without ever coming to court or to our office physically.

By utilizing secure digital signing and virtual consultations, we represent clients from across the country in Charlotte County proceedings. We handle all interactions with the Charlotte County Clerk of Court electronically, providing a seamless experience from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What counts as a “non-exempt” asset for Summary Administration? In Florida, Summary Administration is an expedited path available if the total value of non-exempt assets is under $75,000 or the decedent has been deceased for over two years. “Exempt” assets, like a protected Florida Homestead, do not count toward this $75,000 limit.

Where is the original Will filed in Punta Gorda? Under Florida Statute 732.901, the custodian of the original Will must deposit it with the Charlotte County Clerk of Courts within 10 days of receiving notice of the death. Our firm manages this critical filing to ensure the estate remains in compliance with state law.

What is the “Restricted Depository” requirement? Judges in the 20th Circuit frequently require estate funds to be placed in a Restricted Depository under Florida Statute 69.031. This account protects beneficiaries by requiring a court order for any withdrawals. We coordinate with local financial institutions to satisfy this requirement quickly.

How does Formal Administration differ? Formal Administration is the standard probate process required for larger or more complex estates, or when a Personal Representative must be officially appointed to manage creditor claims or litigation.

Secure Your Family’s Legacy Today

With extensive experience and the unique qualifications of our founding partners, Florida Probate Law Group is committed to providing Punta Gorda families with the highest level of service. We handle the complexities of the law so you can focus on your family.

Client Reviews

I was very happy with her response to my questions and concerns about Florida probate. I am in Ohio and was not familiar with the process but they cleared everything up for me and made me feel comfortable going through the probate process with my loved ones will.

Roger

Honest and straight forward assessment of complex case. My case span both federal and state issues, as well as civil case of fraud which maybe criminal fraud. He told me what he could do, what his limits of scope were and what my best/safest position should be and gave me an outline of how to get...

S. Todd

The world of probate can be fairly daunting for one who has little to no experience. Between trying to figure out what to file and when to file, there is also the where. I was quite relieved to have Nadine and Cary to guide me through the court process.

Michael O.

I highly recommend using this law group for your Florida probate needs, and in particular, Charles David. He explained clearly what my 91 year old aunt would need to do in order to sell property that was in hers and her late husband's name.

Patti T.

Florida probate law group,was very helpful in answering the many questions that I had concerning my situation their input was very appreciated thank you.

Shirley M.

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