Collier County Probate Court Guide (2026)

Navigating the probate process in Naples, Marco Island, and Immokalee requires a comprehensive understanding of the 20th Judicial Circuit’s local requirements. In Collier County, the court system is highly automated but demands strict adherence to specific administrative orders to avoid delays in the distribution of assets.

At Florida Probate Law Group, we provide families with a clear, predictable path through the estate administration process. For a detailed look at the laws and timelines governing these cases, we recommend reviewing our Complete Guide to Florida Probate. Our statewide probate attorneys specialize in Collier County cases, offering all-inclusive flat-fee pricing to provide your family with financial certainty.

🏛️ Collier County Courthouse & Clerk Information

Probate and guardianship matters are centralized at the main government complex in Naples.

Courthouse Name: Collier County Government Center
Clerk of Court: Crystal K. Kinzel
Probate Department Phone: (239) 252-2745
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

[!IMPORTANT]
2026 Filing Note: The Collier County Clerk’s office requires all Original Wills to be physically deposited at the Naples courthouse within 10 days of the decedent’s passing. Our firm manages the secure delivery of these documents for our clients.

⚖️ 20th Judicial Circuit Local Procedures

Collier County follows the standardized “Best Practices” of the 20th Circuit. To ensure your case moves efficiently through the Naples courthouse, we adhere to the following 2026 protocols:

Judicial Oversight: Probate cases are primarily overseen by Judge Joseph G. Foster (Administrative Judge) and Judge John McGowan. Both judges require petitions to be meticulously prepared according to local administrative orders.
Mandatory Checklists: Similar to other counties in the 20th Circuit, Collier requires attorneys to submit a verified Probate Checklist with every proposed order.
Electronic Submission: All proposed orders must be submitted in Microsoft Word format through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal with a specific cover letter indicating whether all counsel have reviewed the form of the order.
Virtual Appearances: Most uncontested probate status conferences are held via Zoom, allowing our firm to represent families worldwide without requiring a trip to Naples.

💰 2026 Collier County Probate Filing Fees

Current court costs for the 20th Judicial Circuit (not including convenience fees charged by the State of Florida):

Action Type	Filing Fee
Formal Administration (Full Probate)	$400.00
Summary Administration (Estates > $1,000)	$345.00
Summary Administration (Estates < $1,000)	$235.00
Notice of Trust	$42.00
Caveat by Interested Party	$41.00

❓ Collier County Probate FAQ

Is Summary Administration available for Collier County estates?

Yes. Summary Administration is an expedited probate track available if the decedent has been deceased for more than two years OR if the total value of the non-exempt assets is less than $75,000. Our attorneys can help you determine if your loved one’s estate qualifies for this faster process.

What is the “Flat-Fee” model?

We believe that families should not be surprised by high legal bills during a time of grief. At Florida Probate Law Group, we provide an all-inclusive flat fee for all uncontested probate matters. We do not charge by the hour for these cases, ensuring the maximum inheritance is preserved for the beneficiaries.

How do I find a probate case in Naples?

You can search for active or closed probate cases using the Collier County Clerk’s Online Matrix. You will need the decedent’s name or the case number to access public records.

Do I need to live in Florida to handle a Collier probate?

No. Because we utilize the 2026 e-portal and Zoom hearing systems, we can represent Personal Representatives who live out of state or even out of the country. We handle all local filings and court appearances on your behalf.

📍 Why Hire Florida Probate Law Group?

Our firm brings “insider” judicial experience to every case, ensuring your probate matter is handled with precision.

Judicial Insight: Founded by a former court staff attorney, we understand the specific nuances that Collier County judges look for in a petition.
Streamlined Technology: We use the latest 2026 digital tools to expedite the appointment of Personal Representatives and the issuance of Letters of Administration.
Litigator-Led Strategy: Our background in estate litigation allows us to identify and resolve potential “red flag” issues—such as missing heirs or creditor disputes—before they delay your case.

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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