Inheritance Attorney in Florida

Protecting Your Rights In Contested Inheritances

If you are facing a dispute over an inheritance in Florida, you are dealing with both grief and uncertainty at the same time. You may suspect that a will or trust is not what your loved one truly wanted, or you may be left in the dark by a personal representative or trustee who will not share information. At Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A., we help heirs, beneficiaries, surviving spouses, personal representatives, and trustees understand their rights and options when inheritances become contested.

Our firm has focused on probate, trust, and estate litigation since 2002. During that time, we have represented more than 5,000 clients in estate-related disputes and have obtained over $230 million in verdicts and settlements. Our founding partner holds an AV rating from Martindale Hubbell, a 10 Superb rating from Avvo, and has been named among the state’s Legal Elite, which reflects our commitment to ethical and effective advocacy in high-stakes matters.

Freeze the damage. Contact Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A. today to demand an accounting and protect estate assets in Florida.

Helping You Navigate Contested Inheritances Under Florida Law

When a loved one dies, family members are often left to sort through wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and probate procedures that are unfamiliar and confusing. In Florida, those documents and proceedings are handled under specific rules that govern how an estate is administered, how notices are given, and how objections must be raised. It can be difficult to know whether what is happening in your case is typical or a sign that something is wrong.

Many of our clients contact us because they sense that something about the inheritance process does not feel fair. A will may have been changed shortly before death. A new caregiver or romantic partner may suddenly appear as a major beneficiary. A sibling serving as personal representative may refuse to provide an accounting or may be living in estate property without explanation. These situations are stressful and can quickly strain family relationships.

Our attorneys help you separate suspicion from evidence and understand how probate courts evaluate these situations. We review the documents, timelines, and communications and explain in plain language what rights heirs and beneficiaries typically have. We also discuss realistic options, from raising concerns informally to filing formal actions in the appropriate circuit court that oversees the estate. Throughout, we remain mindful that you are dealing with loss as well as legal issues, and we strive to address both with care.

Why Families Trust Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A. With Inheritance Disputes

Choosing a firm to handle an inheritance dispute is an important decision because the outcome can affect both your financial future and your family relationships. Since 2002, Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A. has represented more than 5,000 clients in estate-related disputes, including will contests, trust contests, fiduciary litigation, and related matters. This depth of experience allows us to recognize common patterns quickly and to identify strategies that fit the facts of your situation.

Our results include over $230 million in verdicts and settlements obtained for clients in probate, trust, and estate litigation. These numbers reflect our work in cases where significant assets and complex family dynamics were at stake. While every matter is different, this history shows that families and fiduciaries have trusted us with high-value disputes and that we work diligently to protect our clients’ interests.

Our firm has also been recognized by respected legal rating organizations. Our founding partner has an AV rating from Martindale Hubbell and a 10 Superb rating from Avvo, and has been named among the state’s Legal Elite, with additional honors from publications such as Forbes Florida and American Lawyer. These recognitions are based on factors such as legal ability, ethical standards, and peer evaluations. They provide independent confirmation that we approach our work with professionalism and care.

The attorneys at Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A. bring together backgrounds in estate planning, uncontested probates, law enforcement, and litigation. This combination is particularly valuable in inheritance cases that involve suspected exploitation, financial abuse, or breach of fiduciary duty. We understand how a properly planned estate should function, how an uncontested probate usually proceeds, how concerning patterns may look from an investigative standpoint, and how to present evidence effectively in court. Above all, we are committed to personalized attention, listening closely to your concerns, and explaining your options clearly before any major decision is made.

Common Florida Inheritance Disputes We Handle

Inheritance conflicts can arise in many different ways, but they often share similar legal and factual themes. By understanding the types of disputes we frequently see, you may recognize elements of your own situation and gain clarity about possible next steps. Our firm regularly handles contested matters that involve wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and fiduciary conduct.

Will Contests & Related Challenges

One common category involves will contests. These may be based on claims that the person who signed the will lacked mental capacity at the time, that they were subject to undue influence by someone in a position of trust, or that the document does not meet formal requirements. Disputes can also arise when multiple wills exist, or when a final version dramatically departs from a long-standing estate plan without a clear explanation.

Trust Disputes & Beneficiary Conflicts

We also work on disputes that center on trusts and trust amendments. Beneficiaries may question the validity of a late trust change that favors one person, or they may believe that a trustee is mismanaging or misusing trust assets. Conflicts sometimes develop over whether a trust has been properly funded, or whether distributions are being made according to the trust’s terms.

Fiduciary Duty & Misconduct Claims

Fiduciary disputes form another significant part of our practice. These cases involve allegations that a personal representative or trustee is not fulfilling legal duties, such as providing information, keeping accurate records, avoiding self-dealing, and treating beneficiaries fairly. For example, a personal representative may sell estate property to a relative at a below-market price, or a trustee may pay themselves fees that appear unreasonable. We work with both beneficiaries bringing claims and fiduciaries who need to defend their conduct.

Our clients often include heirs who live outside Florida, while their parents or other relatives lived here and kept property here. These cross-border situations can make it harder to monitor what is happening with the estate and can increase the risk that important deadlines are missed. We help out-of-state clients understand which court is handling the matter and what can be done from a distance to protect their interests.

What To Do If You Suspect a Problem With Your Inheritance

When you suspect that something is wrong with your inheritance, it can be tempting to act quickly or to confront family members on your own. At the same time, it is important to be thoughtful because certain steps can have lasting consequences. We encourage clients to take several practical actions that help protect their rights and preserve important information while they decide how to proceed.

You may find it helpful to gather key documents as soon as you can. These often include any wills or trust documents you have received, copies of prior estate plans if available, account statements, property records, and written communications related to the estate. If you received formal notices from a probate court, keep those as well, since they can affect timelines and options.

It is usually wise not to sign releases, waivers, family settlement agreements, or other documents that purport to resolve claims until you have had a chance to obtain legal advice. Such agreements can limit or end your ability to challenge a will, trust, or distribution. Once signed, they may be difficult or impossible to undo. Reviewing them with an attorney before signing can help prevent unintended results.

Documenting what you are told and what you observe can also be valuable. You may want to keep notes of conversations with the personal representative, trustee, or other family members, including dates and key statements. Save emails and messages that raise concern. These records can help a lawyer understand the sequence of events and assess whether there are warning signs of undue influence, lack of capacity, or mismanagement.

Probate proceedings often involve specific deadlines for raising objections or claims, and those deadlines can start when particular notices are served. Because of that, waiting too long to seek advice may limit your options. If you are concerned, contacting our firm for a free initial consultation can help you understand what timeframes may apply and what steps make sense in your situation.

How Our Florida Inheritance Lawyers Protect Your Rights

When you reach out to us about an inheritance dispute, our goal is to help you move from confusion to a clearer understanding of your position and options. Our attorneys approach each matter with a structured process that allows us to evaluate legal issues, factual questions, and family dynamics. We then work with you to design a strategy that reflects your priorities and tolerance for conflict.

Our Approach To Evaluating Your Case

We typically begin by reviewing the estate planning documents, such as wills and trusts, along with any codicils, amendments, and key financial records. We examine when and how documents were signed, who was involved, and whether there are signs that the person who signed them might not have had the capacity to understand what they were doing or might have been subject to pressure. Where there are allegations of exploitation or manipulation, our attorneys draw on their backgrounds in estate planning, law enforcement, and litigation to evaluate patterns and identify potential evidence.

Addressing Fiduciary Conduct & Court Proceedings

In cases involving personal representatives or trustees, we look closely at their conduct against the fiduciary duties imposed by the law. This may include reviewing accountings, sale transactions, fee arrangements, and communications with beneficiaries. If we identify concerns, we explain the range of tools that may be available, such as seeking accountings, objecting to particular actions, or requesting court supervision or removal, depending on the facts.

Our firm works to resolve disputes efficiently and fairly when possible, because negotiated outcomes can sometimes preserve assets and reduce emotional strain. At the same time, we are fully prepared to litigate in probate courts when necessary. We regularly appear in probate divisions that serve Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties and handle matters throughout Florida for clients whose disputes require hearings or trials. Throughout, we focus on keeping you informed, explaining each step in clear terms, and helping you weigh legal options against the impact on your family and finances.

What To Expect When You Work With Our Firm

Understanding what will happen if you contact a law firm can ease some of the anxiety around that decision. At Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A., we strive to make the process clear from the first conversation. Our aim is to provide structure and support so you can make informed choices about your inheritance dispute.

Your Free Initial Consultation

During your free initial consultation, we typically ask you to describe your relationship to the person who died, the documents you have received, any court notices, and the events that led you to believe there may be a problem. We may request that you share copies of key documents so we can review them while we talk. By the end of that discussion, our goal is for you to have a better understanding of potential legal issues and possible next steps, even if you are not yet ready to move forward.

Ongoing Communication & Personalized Strategy

If you choose to work with us, we develop a plan that reflects the specifics of your case, including the size and complexity of the estate, the strength of potential claims, and the dynamics among family members and other parties. We explain the possible paths, from informal discussions and negotiation to formal court filings, and we talk openly about potential risks and benefits. We avoid guarantees because every dispute depends on facts, evidence, and judicial decisions, but we work diligently to pursue a fair outcome for you.

Communication is a priority for our team. We keep you updated on developments, answer your questions, and make sure you understand what each filing or hearing means for your case. For clients who live out of state while the estate is handled in Florida, we manage filings and court appearances in the appropriate probate court so they do not have to navigate those systems alone. Throughout, we remain mindful that you are dealing with both legal and personal challenges, and we strive to handle your matter with respect and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I challenge a will in Florida if I was left out?

In many situations, someone who was left out of a will may be able to challenge it, depending on their relationship to the person who died and the grounds for the challenge. Florida law typically requires that you have a legal interest in the estate, such as being an heir under a prior will or under intestacy rules, and that you raise specific objections, such as undue influence, lack of capacity, or improper execution. The timing and manner of a challenge can be affected by notices issued in the probate case and by court deadlines. Our attorneys review the will, prior documents if available, the medical and factual context, and any available evidence to assess whether a challenge may be viable. During a free consultation, we can discuss your role in the family and what steps may be appropriate.

What are signs that my loved one was pressured to change their will?

Signs of pressure, often called undue influence, can include sudden or unexplained changes in a long-term estate plan that favor a person who had a position of power or control over your loved one. Examples may include a new will or trust that benefits a caregiver, neighbor, or recent companion who isolated your loved one from family, controlled access to finances or medication, or arranged the meeting with the lawyer who prepared the documents. Other indications can be secrecy around the changes, large gifts made while the person was in declining health, or inconsistent stories about why the change was made. Our attorneys draw on years of handling these disputes, as well as backgrounds that include law enforcement and estate planning work, to evaluate whether the facts suggest improper pressure. We then explain what information and records would be helpful to investigate further.

What can I do if the personal representative will not share information?

Beneficiaries and certain heirs typically have rights to receive information about the estate, including inventories and accountings, once a probate case is opened. When a personal representative refuses to provide basic information or significantly delays required disclosures, that can be a warning sign that they are not fulfilling their fiduciary duties. Steps that may be available include requesting information in writing, examining court filings to see what has been reported, or, when appropriate, asking the probate court to require accountings or to address specific conduct. At Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A., we review the case status, the letters of administration, and any filings in the probate court to determine what should have been provided. We then advise you on options to enforce your rights while considering the potential impact on family relationships.

Do I need to live in Florida to hire your firm for an inheritance dispute?

You do not need to live in Florida to hire our firm if the estate or trust at issue is being administered here. It is common for adult children or other heirs to live in another state while their parent or relative lived and kept property here. In those situations, the probate case typically proceeds in the circuit court for the county where the decedent resided, such as the probate divisions serving Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach counties. We regularly represent clients who live elsewhere and communicate with them by phone, video, and email while handling court filings and appearances locally. During our initial discussion, we can explain how distance is managed and what involvement may be required from you.

How long do I have to act if I suspect a problem with my inheritance?

The time you have to act in an inheritance dispute can be influenced by several factors, including the type of claim, when you received notice of the probate proceedings, and what has been filed in court. Some objections to wills or personal representative actions must be raised within specific periods after certain documents are served or filed, and missing those deadlines can limit your options. Because of this, waiting until the end of the estate administration may not be advisable if you have serious concerns. Our attorneys review the procedural history of your case, including any notices and orders from the probate court, to identify which timeframes may apply. Speaking with us sooner rather than later can help ensure that potential claims are evaluated before important deadlines pass.

How will your attorneys approach my family’s inheritance dispute?

Our approach starts with listening carefully to your story, reviewing the documents, and identifying both legal issues and family dynamics. We then discuss your goals, such as correcting what you see as an unfair change, protecting a vulnerable relative, or defending actions you took as a fiduciary. Based on that, we outline possible strategies that may include requesting information, seeking negotiated solutions, using mediation, or filing petitions or complaints in probate court. Throughout the process, we aim to balance strong advocacy with an awareness of the emotional and relational costs of each step. We keep you informed and involved in decisions so that the path we follow reflects your priorities and comfort level with conflict.

What will we discuss during the free initial consultation?

During your free initial consultation, we focus on understanding the key facts and documents that shape your inheritance situation. We typically ask about your relationship to the person who died, any wills or trusts that have been shared with you, the status of any probate case, and the specific events or conduct that concern you. If you have received notices from a probate court or been asked to sign agreements, it is helpful to mention those as well. We then explain, in general terms, how similar disputes are handled, what issues may arise under the law, and what possible options you may consider. By the end of the conversation, our goal is that you have a clearer sense of whether pursuing legal action is appropriate and how our firm could assist if you choose to move forward.

Talk With Our Team About Your Florida Inheritance Dispute

If you are facing a contested will, questionable trust changes, or problems with a personal representative or trustee, you do not have to work through these issues on your own. The attorneys at Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A. have focused on probate, trust, and estate litigation for more than two decades, have handled thousands of estate-related disputes, and have obtained substantial recoveries in high-stakes matters. We bring that experience, along with recognized ratings and a compassionate approach, to each new case we accept.

Silence ends here. Call Adrian Philip Thomas, P.A. at (954) 764-7273 to compel records, stop asset transfers, and assert your inheritance rights.