Statewide Probate
Attorneys in Florida
Attorneys in Florida
Clay County Probate Court Guide (2026)
Navigating the probate process in Green Cove Springs, Orange Park, and Fleming Island requires an understanding of the specific local rules of the 4th Judicial Circuit. In Clay County, procedural precision is key to ensuring assets are transferred to heirs without unnecessary court delays.
At Florida Probate Law Group, we provide families with a clear, predictable path through the estate administration process. For a comprehensive look at the legal requirements and timelines, we recommend reading our Complete Guide to Florida Probate. Our statewide probate attorneys specialize in Clay County cases, offering all-inclusive flat-fee pricing to give you financial certainty during a difficult time.
🏛️ Clay County Courthouse & Clerk Information
The probate division is located within the main courthouse complex in Green Cove Springs.
- Courthouse Name: Judge William A. Wilkes Judicial Complex (Clay County Courthouse)
- Address: 825 North Orange Avenue, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
- Clerk of Court: Tara S. Green
- Probate Department Phone: (904) 284-6302
- Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
[!NOTE]
2026 Filing Tip: While the Clerk maintains a branch office in Orange Park, all original probate documents, including the Original Will, must be deposited at the main Green Cove Springs headquarters to be officially recorded.
⚖️ 4th Judicial Circuit Probate Procedures
Clay County is part of the 4th Judicial Circuit, which also serves Duval and Nassau counties. The court maintains strict administrative standards to ensure estates are handled efficiently.
- Mandatory Checklists: In the 4th Circuit, judges—including Judge James E. Kallaher (Division B)—require specific probate checklists to be submitted with petitions for Summary Administration and Homestead. Our firm ensures these checklists are perfectly completed to avoid “Deficiency Notices.”
- Proposed Orders via E-Portal: All proposed orders must be submitted in Word format through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal using the 4th Circuit’s specific templates and DJMCA signature tags.
- Zoom Hearings: Most uncontested probate status conferences and hearings are held virtually via Zoom in 2026, allowing us to represent families worldwide without requiring them to travel to Green Cove Springs.
💰 2026 Clay County Probate Filing Fees
Current estimated court costs for opening an estate in Clay County (not including convenience fees):
| Action Type | Estimated Filing Fee |
| Formal Administration (Full Probate) | $400.00 |
| Summary Administration (Estates > $1,000) | $345.00 |
| Summary Administration (Estates < $1,000) | $235.00 |
| Petition to Reopen Estate | $50.00 |
| Notice of Trust | $42.00 |
❓ Clay County Probate FAQ
When can I use Summary Administration in Clay County?
Summary Administration is a faster, less expensive probate track available if:
- The decedent has been deceased for more than two years; OR
- The total value of the non-exempt assets subject to probate is less than $75,000.Because Florida homestead property is often considered an “exempt asset,” many families with real estate in Orange Park or Fleming Island still qualify for this expedited process even if the home is worth more than $75,000.
What does “Flat-Fee” Probate mean?
Most law firms charge a percentage of the estate’s value or an hourly rate that can escalate quickly. At Florida Probate Law Group, we provide an all-inclusive flat fee for uncontested probate. This means you know the total cost of our representation before we ever file a petition with the court.
Where do I file a Will in Clay County?
Under Florida law, the original Will must be deposited with the Clerk of Court within 10 days of learning of the death. Our firm manages this filing for our clients, ensuring the document is safely transported to the courthouse in Green Cove Springs.
Do I need an attorney if I live out of state?
Yes. Florida Probate Rule 5.030 requires most personal representatives to be represented by a licensed attorney. Because our firm uses the latest e-filing and virtual hearing technology, we can handle the entire Clay County probate process for you regardless of where you live.
📍 Why Hire Florida Probate Law Group for Clay County?
Our firm brings a unique level of “insider” judicial experience to every case.
- Judicial Experience: Founded by a former probate court staff attorney, we understand exactly how Clay County judges review files.
- Efficiency: We utilize the 4th Circuit’s mandatory checklists and “Smart Forms” to move your case through the system as fast as legally possible.
- Transparency: We focus on flat fees and clear communication, ensuring you are never surprised by a legal bill.
- Litigation Avoidance: While we specialize in uncontested probate, our background in estate litigation allows us to identify and resolve potential disputes before they become expensive problems.