Cape Coral Probate Lawyer: Expert Estate Administration in Lee 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 Cape Coral—from the waterfront canal homes in Southwest Cape to the residential communities of Coral Lakes and Sandoval—requires a firm that understands the specific procedural requirements of the 20th Judicial Circuit. As the largest city in Lee County, Cape Coral residents are served by the judicial hub in Fort Myers, demanding a legal team that is fluent in the “Lee County Way” of administration.

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

Unmatched Qualifications and Experience

At Florida Probate Law Group, we provide Cape Coral families with extensive experience, having successfully resolved thousands of probate cases. Our founding partners, R. Nadine David and Charles “Cary” David, are honors graduates of Stetson University College of Law and proud University of Florida alumni.

Our unique qualifications set us apart:

• Insider Judicial Training: 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 move a case forward without delay.
• Federal & Litigation Background: Founding partner Cary David gained elite experience during law school working for U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Kovachevich (the trailblazing former Chief Judge of the Middle District of Florida) and the Tampa U.S. Attorney’s Office.
• National Recognition: In 2024, Cary David addressed the National College of Probate Judges, reinforcing our firm’s commitment to setting the standard for probate excellence throughout the state.

The Advantage of 20th Circuit Judicial Insight in 2026

In Lee County, probate success is driven by a firm’s mastery of the local rules established by the bench in Fort Myers. As of 2026, the Lee County Probate Division—overseen by judges such as Judge Josephine Gagliardi, Judge Lindsay Garza, Judge Devin George, and Judge Javier Pacheco—operates under strict administrative protocols.

Mandatory Checklist Compliance

The 20th Judicial Circuit requires strict adherence to mandatory checklists for all probate filings. Under local probate procedures, no proposed order will be signed without a verified Lee County Probate Checklist that cross-references every required “predicate document” by its specific e-filing docket number. We ensure every petition for Summary Administration or Formal Administration is perfect on the first submission.

Local Courthouse Information

While Cape Coral has a Lee County Government Center located at 1039 SE 9th Place, Cape Coral, FL 33990, formal probate filings and judicial reviews take place at the Lee County Justice Center in Fort Myers.

• Courthouse Address: 1700 Monroe Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901.
• Clerk of Court: Physical deposit of original Wills must be made with the Lee County Clerk of Courts within 10 days of receiving notice of death, per Florida Statute 732.901.

Professional Standards and Decorum

Attorneys in this circuit must abide by Administrative Order 2.13 (Courtroom Decorum) and the Standards of Professional Courtesy. Our firm’s reputation for integrity within the 20th Circuit ensures that your case is treated with the respect it deserves.

100% Remote Probate: Serving the Cape from Anywhere

Cape Coral property owners often have heirs living out of state. We have pioneered a 100% Remote Probate model, allowing you to settle an estate without ever coming to court or visiting our office physically.

1. Virtual Consultations: Meet with our team via secure video conferencing from your home or office.
2. Digital Document Execution: Sign required filings securely via electronic signature, compliant with Florida’s 2026 digital standards.
3. Electronic Representation: We manage the entire digital interface with the Lee County Clerk and handle all virtual appearances before 20th Circuit judges on your behalf.

Fee Structure: Summary vs. Formal Administration

We categorize probate into two primary paths, based on the size and complexity of the estate.

Summary Administration

An expedited path under Florida Statute 735.201 for Cape Coral 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 requiring a Personal Representative (Executor), governed by Florida Probate Rule 5.200. This is necessary when heirs must manage bank accounts, handle litigation, or clear the title on Cape Coral real estate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What counts as a “non-exempt” asset in a Cape Coral 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 Cape Coral 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.

What is a “Restricted Depository” in the 20th Circuit? Judges in Lee 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 Cape Coral estate even if you live in another state. Non-relatives must be Florida residents to qualify under Florida Statute 733.304.

Secure Your Family’s Lee 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 Cape Coral. We handle the complexities of the law so you can focus on your family.