Florida Probate Litigation Lawyer Blog
Whether an individual dies testate (with a will) or intestate (without a will), there are always expenses and obligations that must be paid by the estate. Whether the estate is in Palm Beach, Miami or Fort Lauderdale, each estate has funeral costs, there are probably some medical expenses, there may even be back taxes that must be paid. Those expenses and obligations are paid prior to the beneficiaries receiving their share, if any, of the remaining estate. Florida Statute 733.707 governs the order of payment:
Class 1 – Costs of the estate administration and fees of the personal representative and attorneys.
Class 2 – Reasonable funeral expenses, not to exceed $6,000.
