Name changed for privacy; photo not the client.
Following the unexpected passing of her husband, “Lisa,” not her real name, needed guidance to secure ownership of her home and vehicle. JALA Attorney Jessica Farmer assisted Lisa through the probate process, ensuring she could remain in the family home with clear legal title.
Lisa’s late husband had children from a previous marriage, but they fully supported her right to the home. Under probate statutes, the children had to be included in the legal process before transferring their interest. JALA utilized a legal form called a quitclaim deed to officially place ownership in Lisa’s name. After smooth transfer of title, Lisa sought to also claim her husband’s vehicle as exempt property, allowing her to take full ownership without legal complications.
When Lisa first reached out to JALA, she was overwhelmed by the sudden loss of her husband and unsure of where to begin. While the probate process required time and patience, Farmer reassured her that there was no rush, as her grief and healing were the priority. Over several months, Lisa gradually gathered the necessary paperwork, and Farmer remained steadfast in providing support at her own pace. The probate orders put the title of the home into the names of Lisa and the children, but the orders put the title of the car in Lisa’s sole name. The car qualified as exempt property which protected Lisa’s interest in the car from creditor claims.
Now that probate has been completed, Lisa’s late husband’s children executed quitclaim deeds to transfer their interest in the home to Lisa. JALA is currently working to record the deeds, ensuring Lisa’s home is legally hers. Having clear title to the property not only gives her peace of mind but also provides long-term financial security, including access to homestead exemptions and other homeowner benefits.
If you or someone you know needs help with probate after the loss of a loved one, please contact JALA for assistance at (904) 356-8371 or apply online at www.jaxlegalaid.org/apply/.
About Jacksonville Area Legal Aid
Jacksonville Area Legal Aid is a nonprofit law firm dedicated to delivering economic, social, and housing justice to low-income and at-risk individuals and families on the First Coast.
If you are an attorney interested in volunteering with probate and heirs’ property issues, please contact JALA Pro Bono Director Aaron Irving at (904) 356-8371, Ext. 363, or Aaron.Irving@jaxlegalaid.org.
