Pensacola Probate Lawyer: Expert Estate Administration in Escambia County

Navigating the legal transition of an estate in Pensacola requires a firm that understands the distinct character of the Emerald Coast—from the historic homes in Northpointe and East Hill to the coastal properties of Perdido Key and Pensacola Beach. Managing an estate in the Florida Panhandle involves navigating the specific procedural requirements of the 1st Judicial Circuit.

At Florida Probate Law Group, we provide Pensacola families with extensive experience, insider judicial insight, and the financial predictability of affordable flat fees. Our founding partners, R. Nadine David and Charles “Cary” David, are honors graduates of Stetson University College of Law. As proud University of Florida alumni, the Davids are deeply connected to the legal landscape of the state. Our firm’s leadership is recognized at the highest levels; notably, in 2024, Cary David addressed the National College of Probate Judges, reinforcing our commitment to setting the standard for probate excellence throughout Florida.

The Advantage of 1st Circuit Insight in 2026

In Escambia County, probate success is determined by a firm’s mastery of the local-local rules established by the Pensacola bench. As of 2026, the 1st Judicial Circuit relies on specific digital filing standards and judicial preferences that can vary significantly from South Florida or the Jacksonville area.

• Judicial Familiarity: We understand the specific procedural expectations of the Escambia County judges overseeing the probate docket, including Judge Jan Shackelford and Judge Amy Brodersen. Our firm prepares “judge-ready” petitions designed to move through the system without the “Deficiency Notices” that often delay out-of-town practitioners.
• Mandatory Checklist Compliance: The 1st Circuit utilizes mandatory checklists to ensure all statutory requirements are met before an order is signed. Our insider insight allows us to satisfy these requirements on the first submission, ensuring your case moves toward distribution as quickly as possible.
• Northwest Florida Property & Homestead Expertise: For Pensacola residents, the family home is often the estate’s most significant asset. We specialize in filing Petitions to Determine Homestead to protect this equity from creditors and clear the title for heirs, ensuring compliance with Florida’s unique constitutional protections.

100% Remote Probate: No Travel Required

Whether you are local to the Panhandle or an out-of-state heir, probate administration can be completed remotely without ever coming to court or to our office physically.

1. Virtual Consultations: Meet with our team via secure video from your home in Pensacola or from anywhere in the world.
2. Digital Execution: Sign nearly all required probate filings securely via electronic signature, compliant with Florida’s 2026 digital standards.
3. Electronic Representation: We manage all filings with the Escambia County Clerk of Court and handle all virtual appearances before 1st Circuit judges on your behalf.

Affordable Flat Fees: Financial Certainty

We believe that probate should not be a financial mystery. Unlike many firms that charge a percentage of the estate’s total value, we offer affordable flat-fee pricing for all uncontested probate matters.

Summary Administration

An expedited path under Florida Statute 735.201 for Pensacola estates where:

• The total value of “non-exempt” assets is under $75,000.
• OR the decedent has been deceased for more than two years.

Formal Administration

The standard process for larger estates or those with complex creditor issues, governed by Florida Probate Rule 5.200.

For a detailed walkthrough of the legal steps involved, read our Complete Guide to Florida Probate and our specific Escambia County Probate Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What counts as a “non-exempt” asset in a Pensacola estate? In Florida, “exempt” assets—most notably a protected Florida Homestead—do not count toward the $75,000 threshold for Summary Administration. This means an estate can include a high-value coastal property and still qualify for the faster Summary process if the remaining liquid assets (bank accounts, stocks) are below $75,000. Learn more from the Florida Bar’s Consumer Pamphlet.

Where do I file the original Will for a Pensacola resident? Under Florida Statute 732.901, the original Will must be deposited with the Escambia County Clerk of Courts within 10 days of receiving notice of the death. The courthouse is located at 190 W Government St, Pensacola, FL 32502. Our firm manages this secure physical filing for our clients.

What is a “Restricted Depository” in the 1st Circuit? Judges in Escambia County frequently require estate cash to be held in a Restricted Depository per Florida Statute 69.031. This account protects the assets by requiring a court order for any withdrawals. We coordinate directly with local financial institutions to satisfy this requirement.

Can an out-of-state relative serve as the Personal Representative? Yes. As long as you are a close blood relative (spouse, child, parent, sibling, etc.), you can serve as the Personal Representative for a Pensacola estate even if you live in another state. This is governed by Florida Statute 733.304.

Secure Your Family’s Panhandle Legacy

At Florida Probate Law Group, we combine the unique qualifications of our founding partners with a deep commitment to the residents of Escambia County. We handle the complexities of the law so you can focus on your family.