Florida Estate Planning Lawyer Blog
In Florida when a Summary Administration is used to Probate an estate the Florida Probate must be converted to a Formal Administration to allow for a will contest.
There are time limits to object to a will so it is important to file documents timely. If the probate has not been opened in Florida it is possible to file a caveat. A caveat is a notice that is file in the probate court that allows you an opportunity to object to a will or the appointment of a personal representative. It is basically a notice to the court to give you an opportunity to respond before the court appoints a PR or admits the will for probate in Florida.
It is more difficult to remove a PR after they are appointed so if you feel that something is wrong, it is a good idea to file a caveat as soon as possible.
One a Florida Summary Administration Probate has been opened, it will need to be converted to a Formal Administration before you can object to the Last Will and Testament on grounds of undue influence.
While objections are not common in a summary administration there are circumstances when they may make financial sense. If you feel that a will was obtained by undue influence or created when someone lacked the capacity to create the will, you should contact a Jacksonville Estate Planning Lawyer or fill out the contact us form on this page.