Office Locations

Gainesville Office

Ocala Office

Our firm provides certain, predictable legal services for estate administration throughout the entire state. Our reputation for excellence is backed by hundreds of 5 star google reviews from clients who have navigated the loss of a loved one with our support.

Gainesville Probate Lawyer: Expert Estate Administration in Alachua County

When you need a Gainesville probate attorney, you are often looking for a way to transfer assets from a decedent to their rightful heirs without unnecessary stress. Florida Probate Law Group was founded to solve this problem. Our firm’s extensive experience, which can be explored in detail at floridaprobatelawgroup.com, allows us to provide a streamlined experience that traditional law firms often struggle to replicate.

100% Remote Probate

In 2026, there is no reason for you to spend hours traveling to a law office or sitting in a courtroom. We offer a 100% remote probate process. Whether you are located in Gainesville or across the country, we can complete the entire administration without you ever having to physically visit our office or the Alachua County courthouse. We utilize secure digital signing and electronic filing to move your case through the 8th Judicial Circuit as quickly as possible.

Judicial Insight in Alachua County

Our firm offers a unique advantage because our founding partner, R. Nadine David, previously served as a Trial Court Staff Attorney for the 8th Judicial Circuit. In that role, she worked directly behind the bench, advising probate judges on the legal sufficiency of filings. This insider insight means we know exactly what the local judiciary requires to approve a petition.

In Alachua County, the Alachua County Clerk of Court and the judiciary follow specific Administrative Orders that govern probate proceedings. We ensure every filing meets these local standards, including mandatory checklists and 2026 digital standards, to prevent the delays that often plague less experienced firms.

Ocala Probate Lawyer: Expert Estate Administration in Marion County

Finding an Ocala probate lawyer who understands the nuances of the 5th Judicial Circuit is essential for families in Marion County. Florida Probate Law Group provides the same high level of service in Ocala that we do in Gainesville, ensuring that your estate administration is handled with professional precision.

Local Procedural Nuances

The Marion County Clerk of Court handles filings for the Marion County Courthouse located in downtown Ocala. Our attorneys are familiar with the specific procedural requirements of the 5th Circuit, including their digital filing standards and judicial preferences for Formal Administration.

Founding Partner Qualifications

Our firm is led by R. Nadine David and Charles “Cary” David, both of whom graduated with honors from Stetson Law School. Their unique qualifications, which you can read about here, have positioned our firm as a leader in Florida probate. Cary David’s reputation as a thought leader was recently solidified when he was invited to speak to the National College of Probate Judges regarding the current state of Florida law.

We leverage this high-level expertise for every client, whether we are handling a simple deed preparation or a complex multi-million dollar estate like the Johnny Cash or Bo Diddley matters our firm has been involved with.

Understanding the Two Types of Florida Probate

Summary Administration

Summary Administration is an expedited path for estates with non-exempt assets under $75,000, or in cases where the decedent has been deceased for more than two years. This process is generally faster and less expensive than Formal Administration. It is the ideal choice for families looking to quickly transfer a home or a small bank account.

Formal Administration

Formal Administration is required for larger estates or complex situations where a Personal Representative must be appointed to manage the estate’s affairs. This includes cases where there are significant debts, litigation, or the need to sell real estate that is not protected by Florida’s homestead laws.

100% Remote Strategy and Statewide Reach

While our physical offices are in Gainesville and Ocala, we serve every county in Florida. Our 100% remote model is designed to provide convenience. We handle everything-from the initial consultation to the final order of discharge-electronically. You can stay informed through our Complete Guide to Florida Probate as we work through the court system on your behalf.

Probate FAQ for Gainesville and Ocala Residents

What are non-exempt assets?

Non-exempt assets are those that are subject to the claims of creditors during probate. This generally excludes the decedent’s primary residence (homestead), up to $20,000 in household furniture and appliances, and two motor vehicles used by the decedent or their family members. Understanding what is “exempt” is critical for protecting the inheritance.

What is the 10 day rule for original Wills?

According to Florida Statute 732.901, the custodian of an original Will must deposit it with the Clerk of Court in the county where the decedent lived within 10 days of receiving information that the person has died. We can assist you with this filing to ensure you remain in compliance with the law.

What is a Restricted Depository?

In many Florida probate cases, especially in the 8th and 5th Circuits, a judge may require a “Restricted Depository.” This is a blocked account where estate funds are held. Money can only be withdrawn from this account with a specific court order. This provides an extra layer of security for the beneficiaries.

Local Resources and Important Links

To successfully navigate probate in Gainesville or Ocala, it is helpful to reference these high-authority resources:

Florida Probate Law Group is committed to providing the residents of Alachua and Marion counties with the highest level of legal representation. By combining our insider judicial insight with an affordable flat fee structure, we ensure that your family’s legacy is protected. Contact our Gainesville or Ocala office today to begin your 100% remote probate administration.

Client Reviews

I was very happy with her response to my questions and concerns about Florida probate. I am in Ohio and was not familiar with the process but they cleared everything up for me and made me feel comfortable going through the probate process with my loved ones will.

Roger

Honest and straight forward assessment of complex case. My case span both federal and state issues, as well as civil case of fraud which maybe criminal fraud. He told me what he could do, what his limits of scope were and what my best/safest position should be and gave me an outline of how to get...

S. Todd

The world of probate can be fairly daunting for one who has little to no experience. Between trying to figure out what to file and when to file, there is also the where. I was quite relieved to have Nadine and Cary to guide me through the court process.

Michael O.

I highly recommend using this law group for your Florida probate needs, and in particular, Charles David. He explained clearly what my 91 year old aunt would need to do in order to sell property that was in hers and her late husband's name.

Patti T.

Florida probate law group,was very helpful in answering the many questions that I had concerning my situation their input was very appreciated thank you.

Shirley M.

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