Probate in Fort Lauderdale
By Find Local Law Editorial Team · Last reviewed: May 26, 2026
Researched and drafted with AI assistance and verified against primary sources (statutes, Judicial Council forms, and official court websites). This is general information, not legal advice.
If you’re handling an estate in Fort Lauderdale, the case is filed in the Broward County Circuit Court, Probate Division, part of Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit. The Probate Division appoints the personal representative, issues letters of administration, and supervises creditor claims and distribution. Fort Lauderdale is the county seat.
The local court decides where your case is heard; the substantive law lives in our statewide guides. Start with the Florida probate hub, then read about the probate process, summary administration, or personal representative duties.
Settling an estate involves deadlines and court filings. To get matched with a local Fort Lauderdale probate attorney, connect with a lawyer.
Local court
Court: Probate cases for Fort Lauderdale residents are filed in the Broward County Circuit Court, Probate Division, part of Florida's 17th Judicial Circuit.
Fort Lauderdale is the seat of Broward County, and probate is handled by the Circuit Court's Probate Division within the 17th Judicial Circuit. The division oversees formal and summary administration, appoints personal representatives, and supervises creditor claims and distribution. Verify the court's current location, hours, and filing procedures on its official website before you file.
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Start your free intakeFrequently asked questions
- Which court handles probate in Fort Lauderdale?
- The Broward County Circuit Court, Probate Division, part of Florida's 17th Judicial Circuit. It appoints the personal representative, issues letters of administration, and oversees creditor claims and distribution.
- Do all Fort Lauderdale estates need formal probate?
- Not always. Smaller or older estates may qualify for summary administration instead of formal administration, both handled by the Circuit Court's Probate Division. See our statewide guides for how each track works.