Estate Planning That Fits Your Life. Every family has unique needs, and your estate plan should reflect that. Whether you're preparing a will, setting up powers of attorney, or exploring trusts, Norman Willden Law can help you create a plan that protects what matters most. We offer flexible estate planning packages tailored to your situation, whether you need something straightforward or more in-depth.

Planning Your Will
with
Care and Convenience

Creating a will is one of the most essential steps in any Florida estate plan. A well drafted will gives you control over how your assets are distributed, allows you to name guardians for minor children, and helps avoid confusion or conflict among loved ones after your passing.

At Norman Willden Law PC, our experienced estate planning attorneys works closely with you to ensure your will is clear, legally valid, and tailored to your unique wishes. Whether you need a basic last will and testament or a more comprehensive estate planning package, we provide personalized guidance every step of the way.

We provide experienced probate legal services to help executors and families navigate estate administration smoothly and confidently. Helping Families Navigate Probate With Clarity and Confidence. we guide families, executors, heirs, and creditors through every stage of the probate process. Whether there is a will or not, we make the process easier to understand and easier to manage.

What Is Independent Administration?

Independent administration begins when the court approves the will and formally appoints an executor. Once appointed, the executor has the legal authority to manage the estate without needing court approval for every decision or transaction. This includes paying debts, selling property, and distributing assets.

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Most wills in Florida specifically request independent administration. If that language is included, the court will usually grant it unless there is a legal reason not to. This process reduces delays, limits court involvement, and helps families move forward more efficiently.

What If No Executor Is Named?

If the will does not name an executor, or if the person named has passed away, declined to serve, or is not eligible under Texas law, a family member or beneficiary can apply to serve as the executor. The person applying must be an interested party and capable of handling the responsibilities involved in managing the estate.

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The court can appoint someone to act as executor if they meet the qualifications and if the other heirs are in agreement. We assist clients by preparing the necessary court filings and supporting documents. Whether the appointment is uncontested or there is disagreement among family members, we guide clients through the legal process and advocate for a fair and proper outcome.

Are Handwritten Wills Valid?

Handwritten wills, also called holographic wills, are valid in Florida if they meet specific legal requirements. The entire will must be in the handwriting of the person who created it, and it must clearly express their intent to distribute their property after death. Unlike formal wills, handwritten wills do not need to be witnessed. However, the court will require proof that the handwriting is authentic, which usually involves testimony from someone familiar with the person’s writing.

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We help families determine whether a handwritten will meets Florida legal standards. Our team prepares the required affidavits, helps locate witnesses, and presents the will in court so it can be accepted for probate. If you are unsure whether a handwritten document is a valid will, we can guide you through the next steps and help protect your legal interests.

What Does the Process Involve?

1. File the will and application for probate

2. Attend a short court hearing to prove up the will

3. Receive Letters Testamentary, which give legal authority to the executor

4. Notify beneficiaries and creditors

5. File an inventory or affidavit in lieu of inventory

6. Pay debts and distribute assets according to the will

We assist executors with every part of this process, including court filings, deadlines, notices, and property transfers. You can count on us to provide clear guidance and dependable support from the very beginning of the case until the final distribution of assets is complete.

Why Legal Guidance Matters?

Even when probate seems simple, there are a lot of steps that can cause problems if something is missed. Executors have legal responsibilities under the Texas Estates Code, and if they do not follow the required procedures or handle the estate incorrectly, they can be held personally liable.

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At Norman Willden Law PC, we guide our clients through each part of the process. We help with paperwork, explain what to expect, and make sure everything stays on track. Our goal is to keep things clear and manageable from start to finish.

We offer trusted family law services, guiding clients through divorce, custody, child support, and legal guardianship with care and clarity. Family Law with Clarity and Care.

Family law issues can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face them alone. Whether you are navigating divorce, working through a custody agreement, or planning for the future with a legal name change or marital agreement, we are here to help. At Norman Willden Law PC, we offer thoughtful, straightforward legal guidance to help you make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.

Divorce and Property Division

Divorce can be emotionally and financially overwhelming. We help clients through the legal process with clarity and support. Whether your case is contested or agreed, we work to ensure a fair division of assets, debts, retirement accounts, and business interests. Our focus is on protecting your long-term stability and reaching practical resolutions. We also handle post-divorce modifications when life circumstances change.

Child Custody and Child Support

Custody and support issues are among the most important in any family law case. We help parents create workable parenting plans that prioritize the child’s best interests and protect your rights. Whether you are establishing an order, requesting a change, or enforcing a court decision, we guide you through each step. We also handle child support calculations, enforcement actions, and modifications when needed.

Prenups, Postnups, and Name Changes

Planning ahead helps avoid uncertainty later. We prepare prenuptial and postnuptial agreements that clearly define financial expectations and responsibilities during marriage. If you need a legal name change due to marriage, divorce, adoption, or a personal decision, we handle the full court process and help you update your legal documents.