Jeffrey Skatoff, Florida Probate Attorney

Jeffrey Skatoff has been an attorney since 1991, practicing in the areas of probate litigation, trust litigation, guardianship litigation, and other types of inheritance litigation. Mr. Skatoff also handles appeals of probate, guardianship, trust, and inheritance disputes. Mr. Skatoff also works on the probate aspects of wrongful death litigation in Florida.

Mr. Skatoff takes cases throughout the State of Florida, and has handled cases in over one-half of Florida’s 67 counties,including Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, Collier, Orange, Hillsborough, St. Lucie, and Indian River.

Mr. Skatoff has built his reputation on personal service, experience, and genuine dedication to providing creative and innovative approaches to complex legal issues and estate planning and trust planning.

Mr. Skatoff has been AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell for over 15 years. He is a former United State Department of Justice trial attorney who litigated complex disputes on behalf of the Federal Government and was awarded the Outstanding Attorney Award during his tenure. Mr. Skatoff has been involved in some of the largest probate litigation disputes in Florida, and has handled complex international inheritance and estate disputes. Mr. Skatoff has been a regular commentator with local and national media outlets, such as CNN, the Wall Street Journal and Kiplinger’s, on issues of estate planning, will contests, estate litigation, probate, and power of attorney abuse. Mr. Skatoff also handles international inheritance issues.

Mr. Skatoff is also the publisher of Probatestars, the largest free online source of probate and estate planning information in the English speaking world.

Oral Argument at 5th District Court of Appeals

Jeffrey Skatoff

Free Consultation

Alternate Fee Arrangements

(561) 842-4868

jeffrey@skatoff.com

AV Rated

Deadlines and Timelines in Florida Probate

Complete Guide to Florida Homestead

Complete Guide to Florida Elective Share

Complete Guide to Creditor Claims

Complete Guide to Attorney Fees in Guardianships

Complete Guide to Attorney Fees in Florida Probate

Complete Guide to Will Contests

Complete Guide to Florida Probate

Complete Guide to Florida Guardianship

Complete Guide to Inheritence Litigation

What is the role of a Florida probate attorney in estate administration?

A Florida probate attorney assists in managing the legal process of transferring assets from a deceased person to their heirs or beneficiaries. They help ensure that the will is validated, debts and taxes are paid, and distributions are made according to state laws.

How does a Florida probate attorney help with trust administration?

A Florida probate attorney guides trustees through the legal responsibilities of managing and distributing trust assets. They provide advice on compliance with trust terms, tax implications, and resolving disputes among beneficiaries.

Why is estate planning important in Florida, and how can an attorney assist?

Estate planning ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes upon death and helps minimize taxes and legal complexities. An attorney can help draft essential documents like wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives tailored to state-specific requirements.

What should I consider when choosing a probate attorney in Florida?

Consider their experience in probate law, familiarity with local court procedures, reputation for communication skills, client reviews, and whether they offer personalized service for your specific needs.

How can a probate lawyer assist if there is no will?

If there is no will (intestate), a probate lawyer helps navigate the distribution of assets according to Floridas intestacy laws. They guide heirs through court proceedings, ensuring proper asset allocation per statutory guidelines.

What is the primary role of a Florida probate attorney?

A Florida probate attorney assists in managing and distributing a deceased persons estate according to their will or state law, ensuring compliance with legal procedures.

Why is it important to hire a probate attorney for estate planning in Florida?

Hiring a probate attorney ensures that your estate plan complies with state laws, minimizes potential disputes among heirs, and can help reduce taxes and fees.

How does a trust differ from a will in the context of estate planning?

A trust allows for the management and distribution of assets during and after ones lifetime without going through probate, while a will only takes effect after death and typically goes through the probate process.

Can a Florida probate attorney help avoid probate altogether?

Yes, by setting up trusts or other legal instruments designed to transfer assets outside of the probate process, thus saving time and costs associated with court proceedings.

What are common challenges faced during the probate process in Florida?

Common challenges include contesting wills, resolving creditor claims against the estate, handling complex asset valuations, and addressing tax obligations.