Florida Intestate Succession Rules

If someone in Florida dies without a will, their estate is distributed to living relatives following intestate succession laws.  In the rare case that someone dies without any relatives including great aunts and uncles, cousins of any degree, or nieces or nephews, their estate would escheat, or be passed to, the state.

Some common questions about Florida’s intestate succession rules regard how certain relatives are treated in the process.  Half-relatives, such as half brothers or sisters, are entitled to inheritances as if they were “full” relatives.

If you have further questions about the probate process, intestate succession, or setting up estate planning documents to avoid probate, contact one of our experienced estate planning or probate attorneys at (941) 906-1231.