Tampa Probate Lawyer: Expert Estate Administration in Hillsborough County

Efficient flat fee probate representation in Tampa with Florida Probate Law Group.

If you’re looking for a Tampa probate attorney, you need a firm that understands Hillsborough County’s specific court procedures and can move your case forward without unnecessary delays. Florida Probate Law Group is a probate-focused firm that handles estate administration throughout the Tampa Bay area for a transparent, $3,500 flat fee on summary cases. We don’t bill by the hour. We don’t charge a percentage of the estate. You know the cost before we start.

Managing an estate in Tampa requires a firm that knows the local court system, from the historic bungalows of Old Seminole Heights and the luxury estates of South Tampa to the growing communities in New Tampa and Westchase. Every Hillsborough County probate case goes through the 13th Judicial Circuit, and each circuit has its own filing expectations. A probate attorney in Tampa who understands those expectations saves you time and money.

Tampa Probate Attorney Services: Comprehensive Estate Administration

As experienced Tampa probate attorneys, Florida Probate Law Group provides full-service estate administration throughout Hillsborough County. If you need a probate attorney in Tampa for summary administration, complex formal probate, or homestead determination, our team delivers clear guidance with transparent flat-fee pricing.

Our Tampa Probate Attorney Practice Areas:

• Summary Administration Tampa — $3,500 flat fee for estates with non-exempt assets under $75K
• Formal Administration — Comprehensive estate management for larger or creditor-complex estates
• Homestead Determination — Protect your family’s Tampa property from creditor claims and clear title for heirs
• Probate Litigation — Will contests, undue influence claims, and beneficiary dispute resolution
• Ancillary Probate — For out-of-state decedents who owned property in Tampa or Hillsborough County

Each of these practice areas is handled at a flat fee for uncontested matters. For a full breakdown of our pricing, visit our flat fee probate pricing page.

Managing an estate in Tampa requires a firm that knows the local court system, from the historic bungalows of Old Seminole Heights and the luxury estates of South Tampa to the growing communities in New Tampa and Westchase. Every Hillsborough County probate case goes through the 13th Judicial Circuit, and each circuit has its own filing expectations. A probate attorney in Tampa who understands those expectations saves you time and money.

Why Tampa Families Choose Florida Probate Law Group

At Florida Probate Law Group, we provide Tampa families with 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. Our qualifications set us apart from general practice attorneys who handle probate as a side service:

• Direct Judicial Experience: Our firm’s insider judicial insight is rooted in founding partner R. Nadine David’s tenure as a Probate Court Staff Attorney. Having worked behind the scenes within the court system, she possesses a firsthand understanding of how judges review petitions and what the court requires to move a case forward without delay.
• Federal Litigation Background: Founding partner Cary David gained invaluable federal experience during law school working for U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Kovachevich—the trailblazing first woman appointed as a U.S. District Judge in the Middle District of Florida and former Chief Judge—as well as the Tampa U.S. Attorney’s Office.
• Local Roots: Both partners sat for and passed the Florida Bar Exam right here in Tampa, marking the official start of their dedicated service to Florida families.

This isn’t a general law practice that happens to accept probate cases. This is all we do. That focus means your Tampa probate lawyer knows the local judges, the filing requirements, and the common pitfalls that delay other firms’ cases.

The Advantage of 13th Judicial Circuit Expertise in 2026

In Hillsborough County, probate success depends on a firm’s mastery of the local rules set by the Tampa bench. As of 2026, the 13th Judicial Circuit has adopted mandatory digital filing standards and maintains specific judicial preferences that require precise attention to detail.

Many probate delays in Hillsborough County probate court result from incomplete filings, missing checklists, or failure to follow the circuit’s administrative orders. Our team avoids these problems because we’ve worked inside the system and know exactly what each judge expects.

Here’s what that means for your case:

• “Judge-Ready” Petitions: Because of our background within the court system, we understand the specific procedural expectations of the Hillsborough County judges overseeing the probate docket, including Judge Michael J. Scionti and Judge Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe. We prepare petitions designed to move through the system without the “Deficiency Notices” that often stall less experienced firms.
• Mandatory Checklist Proficiency: The 13th Circuit utilizes mandatory checklists to ensure all statutory requirements are met before an order is signed. Our internal knowledge allows us to satisfy these requirements on the first submission, ensuring your case moves toward distribution as quickly as possible.
• Hillsborough Property & Homestead Expertise: For Tampa 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.
• Digital Filing Compliance: The 13th Circuit now requires all probate filings to be submitted electronically through the Hillsborough County Clerk’s e-filing portal. Our firm handles every electronic submission, ensuring proper formatting, correct document types, and compliant service of process. You don’t need to worry about technical filing requirements.

Our filing procedures are built around preventing common delays. We confirm all required documents are attached before submission, follow up directly with the Clerk’s office when needed, and monitor docket activity to catch any issues early. This proactive approach is one reason our Tampa probate attorney team consistently moves cases through Hillsborough County probate court faster than the county average.

Tampa Probate Court Information

The Hillsborough County Probate Court is part of Florida’s 13th Judicial Circuit, one of the largest circuits in the state. The 13th Circuit serves all of Hillsborough County, including Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Carrollwood, Westchase, and surrounding communities.

Hillsborough County Courthouse
Address: 800 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 276-8100
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

All probate petitions for Tampa residents are filed with the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court. As of 2026, the 13th Circuit requires mandatory electronic filing for all probate matters. Our firm manages the entire digital filing process on your behalf, which means you never need to visit the courthouse or figure out the e-filing system yourself.

For a detailed overview of Hillsborough County’s probate procedures and local court rules, read our Hillsborough County Probate Court Guide.

100% Remote Probate: No Travel Required

You don’t need to be in Tampa to handle a Tampa probate case. As a probate attorney Tampa families and out-of-state heirs both trust, our firm provides 100% remote probate services for clients across the country and around the world. If you’re a local Tampa resident, this means you can complete the entire process from your kitchen table. If you’re an out-of-state heir, it means you don’t need to fly to Florida.

1. Virtual Consultations: Meet with our team via secure video from your home in Tampa 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 Hillsborough County Clerk of Court and handle all virtual appearances before 13th Circuit judges on your behalf.

Many of our Tampa probate clients never set foot in a courtroom. That’s by design. Our remote process is the same one we use for clients across all 67 Florida counties, and it’s been refined over years of practice. If you’re searching for a probate attorney in Tampa who can handle everything without requiring office visits, you’ve found the right firm.

Affordable Flat Fees: Financial Certainty for Tampa Probate

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. This matters in Tampa, where estate values can be significant due to rising real estate prices in neighborhoods like South Tampa, Hyde Park, and Bayshore Boulevard.

Summary Administration

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

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

Our flat fee for summary administration in Tampa is $3,500. This covers all legal work from petition preparation through final order.

Formal Administration

The standard process for larger estates or those with complex creditor issues, governed by Florida Probate Rule 5.200. Formal administration is also available at a flat fee. Contact us for a specific quote based on your estate’s circumstances.

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

2026 Tampa Probate Filing Fees

Understanding the full cost of probate in Tampa means accounting for court fees in addition to attorney fees. Here are the typical Hillsborough County probate court filing fees for 2026:

• Petition for Administration filing fee: approximately $400
• Certified copies of Letters of Administration: $2.00 per page (most clients need several certified copies for banks and title companies)
• Publication of Notice to Creditors: varies by newspaper, typically $150–$250
• Recording fees for real property transfers: varies by document length

These court costs are separate from attorney fees and are paid directly to the Clerk of Court or the publication company. The advantage of working with a flat-fee Tampa probate lawyer is that your attorney’s cost is fixed. You won’t receive surprise invoices or hourly billing statements. Combined with the court fees listed above, you’ll have a clear picture of your total probate cost before the case begins.

Tampa Neighborhoods and Communities We Serve

Our Tampa probate attorney team serves families throughout Hillsborough County. Probate law doesn’t change by neighborhood, but property values, homestead considerations, and estate complexity can vary significantly across Tampa’s diverse communities.

Tampa Neighborhoods We Serve

• South Tampa & Hyde Park — High-value homestead properties that often require Petitions to Determine Homestead
• Old Seminole Heights & Historic Districts — Older homes that may have title complexities from decades of ownership
• Westchase & Carrollwood — Suburban estates with a mix of real property and financial accounts
• New Tampa & Wesley Chapel — Newer communities where estates often involve HOA-governed properties
• Brandon & Riverview — Fast-growing areas south of Tampa with increasing estate administration needs
• Town ‘n’ Country — An unincorporated community in western Hillsborough County
• Sun City Center — A retirement community in southern Hillsborough with high probate demand

No matter where in Hillsborough County the decedent lived or owned property, all probate cases are filed with the same Hillsborough County Clerk of Court at 800 E. Twiggs Street. Our firm handles filings for all Tampa-area communities through the same efficient process.

What Our Tampa Clients Say

“My mother passed away in South Tampa, and I live in Chicago. I was dreading the idea of flying back and forth to deal with probate paperwork. Florida Probate Law Group handled everything remotely. They filed all the documents with Hillsborough County, kept me updated by email, and the summary administration was completed in about five weeks. The $3,500 flat fee was exactly what they quoted. No surprises, no added charges. I’d recommend them to anyone dealing with a Tampa estate from out of state.”

— Jennifer M., Tampa Estate (Out-of-State Client)

Common Tampa Probate Questions

Dealing with a loved one’s estate raises a lot of questions. Here are the ones our probate attorney team in Tampa hears most often from local families and out-of-state heirs with Hillsborough County estates.

How much does a Tampa probate attorney cost?

Florida Probate Law Group charges a $3,500 flat fee for summary administration. Formal administration is also flat-fee, with the exact amount depending on estate complexity. Many Tampa law firms charge hourly rates of $300 to $500 per hour or take a percentage of the estate’s value. Our flat-fee approach means no surprises.

How long does probate take in Hillsborough County?

Summary administration in Tampa typically takes 30 to 60 days when filings are done correctly. Formal administration usually runs 6 to 9 months because of the mandatory creditor notice period and court scheduling in the 13th Judicial Circuit. Errors in filings are the most common cause of delays.

What counts as a “non-exempt” asset in a Tampa 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 home in South Tampa 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 Tampa resident?

Under Florida Statute 732.901, the original Will must be deposited with the Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts within 10 days of receiving notice of the death. The courthouse is at 800 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Our firm manages this secure physical filing for our clients.

Do I need to go to the Hillsborough County probate court in person?

No. Our firm handles 100% of filings electronically. We also appear virtually before 13th Circuit judges on your behalf. You do not need to visit the courthouse at any point during your case.

What is a “Restricted Depository” in the 13th Circuit?

Judges in Tampa 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), you can serve as the Personal Representative for a Tampa estate even if you live in another state. This is governed by Florida Statute 733.304.

What happens if there’s no Will for a Tampa estate?

If a Tampa resident dies without a Will (intestate), the estate still goes through probate. Florida’s intestacy statutes determine who inherits. The court will appoint a Personal Representative based on a statutory priority list, starting with the surviving spouse. The process is the same as formal administration but may take slightly longer due to additional court oversight.

Can I sell a Tampa house that’s in a deceased person’s name?

Not without going through probate first. The title to the property needs to be transferred through a court order. Our firm files the necessary petitions, obtains the order, and works with the title company to clear the property for sale. This is especially common for Tampa homestead properties that need a Petition to Determine Homestead.

What if the estate only has a bank account and no real property?

Smaller estates with only financial accounts may qualify for summary administration, which is faster and less expensive. If the total non-exempt assets are under $75,000, we can typically resolve the case in 30 to 60 days at our $3,500 flat fee. In some cases with very small balances, you may not need probate at all. We’ll tell you during your free consultation.

Contact a Tampa Probate Attorney Today

At Florida Probate Law Group, we combine insider court knowledge with a deep commitment to the residents of Hillsborough County. As a dedicated probate attorney Tampa residents have relied on since 2015, we handle the complexities of the law so you can focus on your family. Probate is all we do, and we do it at a fair, predictable cost.

If you need a probate lawyer in Tampa for a straightforward summary case or a complex formal administration, we’re ready to help. Our free consultation will give you a clear understanding of what your case requires, how long it should take, and exactly what it will cost.

Call (352) 354-2654 for your free consultation, or fill out our contact form, and we’ll get back to you within one business day. Tampa probate attorney services are available 100% remotely, so you can get started from anywhere.