Experienced Personal Representative Attorney in Florida

Personal Representative

Losing a loved one is always difficult, and the legal process that follows can be overwhelming. If you’ve been named as a personal representative (also known as an executor) in a will, you are responsible for managing and settling the deceased person’s estate. This includes handling assets, paying debts, and distributing inheritances according to the will or Florida law.

Many people are unsure of what being a personal representative entails or whether they need legal assistance. At Elderly Care Law Firm, we help personal representatives navigate Florida’s probate process efficiently while avoiding costly mistakes.

What is a Personal Representative?

A personal representative is the person appointed to manage the estate of a deceased individual. This role comes with serious legal responsibilities, including:

Collecting and safeguarding the deceased’s assets
Paying debts and taxes owed by the estate
Distributing inheritances to beneficiaries
Handling probate court proceedings
Resolving disputes between heirs or creditors

In Florida, the personal representative must be:

Over 18 years old
A Florida resident or a close family member of the deceased
Mentally competent and free of felony convictions

What If There is No Will?

If someone dies without a will, the Florida probate court will appoint a personal representative based on state law. Typically, the surviving spouse has first priority, followed by adult children or other close relatives.

The personal representative must follow Florida intestate succession laws, meaning assets are distributed according to state guidelines rather than the deceased’s wishes. This can sometimes lead to family disagreements, making legal guidance even more important.

How Long Does Probate Take in Florida?

Probate is the legal process of settling an estate, and it typically takes 6 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the estate. However, if there are disputes, missing documents, or legal complications, probate can take several years.

Common Challenges for Personal Representatives

Serving as a personal representative comes with legal responsibilities, and mistakes can lead to delays, lawsuits, or even personal financial liability. Some of the most common challenges include:

Failing to notify creditors properly, which can delay estate settlement
Distributing assets too soon, leading to problems if debts are later discovered
Not following Florida probate laws, resulting in potential legal penalties
Handling family disputes over inheritances or the validity of a will

Because the role is complex, many personal representatives choose to work with an experienced probate attorney to ensure everything is handled correctly.

How Can an Attorney Help a Personal Representative?

At Elderly Care Law Firm, we guide personal representatives through every step of the probate process, including:

Filing legal documents with the Florida probate court
Identifying and protecting estate assets
Ensuring debts and taxes are properly paid
Handling beneficiary disputes and avoiding probate litigation
Distributing assets legally and efficiently

If you have been named a personal representative and need guidance, call Elderly Care Law Firm at (305) 564-6606 today for a consultation. Handling an estate can be complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone.

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Elderly Care Law Firm

14707 S. Dixie Highway, PH 401 Miami, FL 33176

Phone: (305) 564-6606

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Serving clients throughout South Florida, |including, Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Palm Beach County, Monroe County, Coral Gables, Cutler Bay, Florida City, Homestead, Key Biscayne, Miami, Miami Beach, Palmetto Bay, Pinecrest, South Miami, Kendall, Kendale Lakes, Naranja, Richmond Heights, South Miami Heights, West Kendall, Davie, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Lauderdale Lakes, Coral Springs, Lauderhill, Miramar, Pembroke Park, Pembroke Pines, Plantation, Pompano Beach, Southwest Ranches, Sunrise, Weston, Key Largo, Key West, Marathon, Key Colony Beach, Islamorada, Tavernier, Big Pine Key, Duck Key, Conch Key, Long Key

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Sherrie Lim

Client Services Coordinator

Sherrie Ann Lim brings over twelve years of customer service experience and a strong background in team leadership and client support. Although she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy, her career path led her to the dynamic world of the contact center industry, where she discovered a deep passion for service, communication, and operational excellence.

Sherrie is known for her perseverance, enthusiasm, and confident sense of responsibility. She consistently delivers high-quality results, efficiently managing tasks while remaining flexible to the evolving needs of her clients. Her commitment to continuous improvement and excellence positions her as a trusted ally for businesses seeking proactive and reliable virtual support.

Drawing from her college background, Sherrie has a deeper understanding of the physical and emotional needs associated with aging, making her especially attuned to the importance of compassionate and informed care for the elderly. She recognizes that elder care isn’t just about physical support, it also involves emotional presence, patience, and clear communication. Her strong appreciation for family ties fuels her commitment to helping clients manage the intricacies of elder care with empathy and attentiveness, ensuring that elderly loved ones feel respected, safe, and truly cared for.

She loves taking care of her family during her rest days and free time, finding joy in the simple yet meaningful routines of home life. Whether it’s preparing home-cooked meals, baking sweet treats for her kids, or tackling household projects, Sherrie finds fulfillment in creating a nurturing and organized environment for her family. Whenever time and opportunity allow, she also enjoys traveling with her family, exploring new places, creating lasting memories, and embracing experiences that strengthen their bond and bring joy into their lives.

Fun Fact: Sherrie’s two kids were born on the exact same date—two years apart! 

May Cruz

Client Services Coordinator

May began her community service career with the Philippine Department of Health as a Computer Operator, providing vital technical support to healthcare workers across island provinces and helping to bridge technology gaps in remote medical settings. Her commitment to service extended beyond her official duties—she also volunteered in medical missions, assisting indigenous communities and contributing to the delivery of essential healthcare with empathy and cultural sensitivity.

Continuing her dedication to public service, May later worked at a law firm as a Disability Service Coordinator, assisting military veterans in navigating disability services. She brought empathy, compassion, and heart to the role, ensuring that each veteran felt heard, respected, and supported throughout the process.

With a unique blend of technical expertise and human-centered care, May remains deeply committed to using her skills to uplift underserved and vulnerable communities.

Fun Fact: Despite not knowing how to swim, May is a certified open water diver. Her adventurous spirit and determination push her beyond her comfort zone—both in life and under the sea.

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