Lakewood Ranch is in Manatee County.

Probate in Manatee County

Probate Court Record

Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller

Manatee County · 12th Judicial Circuit

Hours

Monday-Friday 8:30 AM-4:30 PM

Office

1115 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205

Self-represented filing

Allowed

Self-help forms

How to file probate in Manatee County →

Verified July 3, 2026 · Source

Do I need a lawyer for probate in Manatee County? →Settling an estate in Manatee County →

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Settling a trust in Florida happens outside court: the trustee acts under the state's Uniform Trust CodeFla. Stat. § 736.0101 et seq.Verified Oct 17, 2026View source, notifies the beneficiaries within 60 daysFla. Stat. §§ 736.0813, 736.1008, 736.10081Verified Sep 15, 2026View source, then pays the debts and distributes under the trust's terms.

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Settling an estate in Florida: the personal representative files the estate inventory within 60 daysFla. Prob. R. 5.340; Fla. Stat. § 733.604Verified Sep 15, 2026View source of appointment; creditors have 3 monthsFla. Stat. §§ 733.2121, 733.702 (later of 3 months from first publication or 30 days from service on a served creditor), 733.703, 733.705, 733.707, 733.710Verified Oct 18, 2026View source to present claims; a simple estate closes in 6 months to 9 months.

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