Clermont Probate Lawyer: Expert Estate Administration in Lake County

Florida Probate Law Group has helped thousands of families through the probate process on an affordable flat fee basis since 2014. Navigating the legal transition of an estate in Clermont requires a firm that understands the specific needs of “The Choice of Champions”—from the hillside estates near Lake Minneola and the luxury communities of Legend’s Bay to the growing residential areas along Hancock Road. Settling affairs in this region involves navigating the specific procedural requirements of the 5th Judicial Circuit.

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

The Advantage of 5th Circuit Judicial Insight in 2026

In Lake County, probate success is driven by a firm’s mastery of the local rules established by the bench in Tavares. As of 2026, the Lake County Probate Division—overseen by judges such as Judge James R. Baxley and Judge Heidi Davis—operates under strict administrative protocols that require precise attention to detail.

• Mandatory Checklist Compliance: Under current 5th Circuit procedures, every petition for Summary or Formal administration must be accompanied by a portal-stamped copy of a specific Probate Checklist. Our firm’s streamlined workflow ensures every filing is “judge-ready” to meet the court’s rigorous standards.
• The 10-Day Review Window: Once a proposed order is submitted to the judge’s office in Lake County, it is held for a mandatory 10-day review period. If any required documentation is missing after that window, the order is rejected, and documents may be destroyed, requiring a full resubmission. We utilize our insider judicial insight to ensure your filing is perfect on day one.
• Affidavit of Heirs (AO L-2023-27): To protect the integrity of the family tree, the 5th Circuit requires a detailed Affidavit of Heirs in nearly all cases. This is a critical protection for Clermont families, ensuring no legal beneficiaries are omitted from the distribution.

Unmatched Qualifications and Experience

Our firm offers a level of expertise born from the distinguished professional histories of our founding partners:

• Probate Court Staff Attorney Experience: Founding partner R. Nadine David served as a Probate Court Staff Attorney, providing her with a firsthand understanding of how judges review petitions and exactly what the court requires to issue orders efficiently.
• National Recognition: In 2024, founding partner Cary David addressed the National College of Probate Judges at their conference, reinforcing our firm’s commitment to setting the standard for probate excellence.
• Florida Roots: As honors graduates of Stetson Law and proud University of Florida alumni, the Davids are deeply connected to the state’s legal fabric.

100% Remote Probate: No Travel Required

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

1. Virtual Consultations: Meet with our team via secure video from your home or office.
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 the entire digital interface with the Lake County Clerk of Court and handle all virtual appearances before 5th 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 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. This process is necessary when a Personal Representative must be officially appointed to handle bank accounts or clear the title on property.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What counts as a “non-exempt” asset in a Clermont 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 and still qualify for the faster Summary process if the remaining liquid assets are below $75,000. Learn more from the Florida Bar’s Consumer Pamphlet.

Where do I file the original Will for a Clermont resident? Under Florida Statute 732.901, the original Will must be deposited with the Lake County Clerk of Courts within 10 days of receiving notice of the death. The courthouse is located at 550 W. Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778. Our firm manages this secure physical filing and the mandatory Notice Regarding Will for our clients.

What is a “Restricted Depository” in Lake County? Judges in the 5th Circuit 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.

Secure Your Family’s Lake County Legacy

At Florida Probate Law Group, we combine unique qualifications and the experience of thousands of resolved cases with a deep commitment to the residents of Clermont. We handle the complexities of the law so you can focus on your family.