Estate Planning & Probate in Pinellas County, Florida
Pinellas County estate questions split two ways—planning so your family skips probate, or settling an estate that is already in it. Start with your situation below; both paths use Pinellas County's actual court and recording details.
The Probate Process in Pinellas County
Probate is the court-supervised process of settling someone's estate after they die — validating the will, paying debts and taxes, and transferring what's left to the heirs. In Pinellas County, probate runs through the Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller at 315 Court Street, Room 106, Clearwater. The court sits in the 6th Judicial Circuit. The same 6th Judicial Circuit also serves Pasco.
Full Pinellas Countyprobate guide: cost, how to file & attorneys →Probate Court Record
Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller
Pinellas County · 6th Judicial Circuit
Address
Phone
Hours
Recording Deeds & Property Documents
Recording Office Record
Clerk of the Circuit Court
Pinellas County
Address
Phone
Hours
E-recording
$10 for the first page plus $8.5 for each additional page.
Full recording details →Verified September 4, 2026 · Source
Local Procedures at the Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller
The court offers a self-help center, in Pinellas County Clerk Self-Help Center (in-person at three locations). Staff can review paperwork for completeness and explain procedures, though they cannot provide legal advice.
Claims must be filed in duplicate with one copy containing an original signature per Florida Probate Rule 5.490. Summary Administration requires certified death certificate on watermarked, textured paper from Vital Statistics/DOH.
Florida Estate Planning Articles
Articles about estate planning, probate, and trusts relevant to families in Pinellas County.
Is this your situation?
Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.
