St. Petersburg Probate and Real Estate Attorney James W. Martin

When you need a top rated St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, Florida probate and real estate attorney who understands the legal complexities of Florida probate and real estate law, James W. Martin offers experience, knowledge and professionalism.

As a Florida Bar Board Certified Real Estate Lawyer, he brings a rare dual perspective to every case — combining expertise with five decades of experience in Florida real estate and probate law. Whether you are dealing with a will, intestate probate, summary probate administration, or formal probate administration, or handling real estate sale for a decedent’s homestead, or purchasing or selling your own Florida real estate, Attorney Martin provides precise legal guidance to move forward confidently.

About Attorney Martin

James W. Martin attended Georgia Tech, Stetson University, and Stetson University College of Law, earning both a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and a Juris Doctor degree in Law. In recognition of his distinguished contributions, attorney Martin was inducted into the Stetson Law Hall of Fame. Today, in addition to his law practice, he teaches contract drafting to law students as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Stetson University College of Law, which in 2026 is ranked #1 in the nation for Legal Writing and #1 in Trial Advocacy by U.S. News & World Report.

And attorney James W. Martin has earned the highest professional ratings from Martindale-Hubbell, Super Lawyers, Avvo, Lawyers.com, and Justia — testament to his integrity, skill, and dedication to client service.

Fast Communication

Responsiveness and clarity are central to his practice. James W. Martin returns his clients’ calls and emails promptly. With this solo attorney, there are no hand‑offs — you are always communicating with your attorney.

Remote Friendly Epay, Esign, and Efile

The practice is built for convenience. James W. Martin accepts online payments by credit and debit card, arranges for signing most documents using online signatures, and files court documents electronically through the Florida Courts Efiling Portal. This makes it easier for most clients whether or not they live in Florida.

Local Court Experience for Pinellas County Circuit Court

Probate must be filed in the Florida county where the decedent resided or owned real estate. James W. Martin prepares court filings tailored to Pinellas County Clerk’s Probate Division practices and coordinates required petitions, notices, consents, and proposed orders so each matter stays on track.

Probate Administration: Formal, Summary, and Ancillary

There are three types of probate administration in Florida, and James W. Martin handles all of them: summary probate administration, formal probate administration, and ancillary probate administration. He also addresses homestead rights, exempt property, creditor claims, and court approvals. He assists in compliance with the procedural requirements under the Florida Probate Code (Chapters 731–740, Florida Statutes), as well as the Florida Probate Rules promulgated by the Florida Supreme Court.

Real Estate Sales and Purchases in Pinellas County

From reviewing contracts to closing documents, Florida Bar Board Certified Real Estate Lawyer James W. Martin provides legal advice regarding the sale and purchase of real estate in Pinellas County, Florida, including primary homes, vacation homes, and investment real estate. Because many estates involve real property, Attorney Martin’s Florida Bar Board Certification in Real Estate Law gives clients a critical advantage. He advises clients on:

• Drafting and reviewing contracts for sale and purchase and closing documents
• Selling real estate held in probate or homestead
• Clearing title and resolving property liens
• Understanding Florida homestead law protections and requirements
• Navigating leases, easements, and construction law

He is the author of multiple volumes on Florida real estate transactions published by West Publishing, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble, including Florida Real Estate Sales Contracts and Florida Real Estate Lease Agreements. His guidance helps every transaction proceed as legally sound and efficiently completed.

Why Clients Choose James W. Martin, P.A.

• Direct Access: You speak directly with Attorney Martin, not an assistant.
• Decades of Experience: Trusted advisor in probate and real estate law.
• Academic and Legal Excellence: Professor, author, and educator in Florida law.
• Top Rated: Peer-reviewed for ethics and ability across major legal rating services (Super Lawyers, Justia, Avvo, Lawyers.com, Martindale).
• Compassionate Guidance: Legal help that balances professionalism with understanding.
• Board Certification: Real estate law expertise recognized by The Florida Bar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does Florida probate take?

St. Petersburg probate attorney James W. Martin’s goal is to complete regular, uncontested formal probate administration in six months from the date of filing the necessary pleadings with the probate court. Summary probate proceedings can take less time.

Can I handle probate without a lawyer?

Florida requires attorney representation for most formal probate cases. And having an experienced probate lawyer for summary probate helps prevent delays and assures compliance with the Florida Probate Code, the Florida Probate Rules, and Pinellas County Clerk of Court procedures.

What if the decedent owned real estate in multiple states?

If the decedent owned Florida real estate but resided in another state, Attorney Martin can assist with an ancillary probate in Florida — a secondary proceeding limited to Florida assets. And if the decedent resided in Florida but owned real estate in another state, Attorney Martin can handle the Florida domiciliary probate while a lawyer licensed in the other state can handle the ancillary probate there.

Do I have to go to court?

Most cases can be handled without in-person hearings. Attorney Martin manages all filings and appearances on the client’s behalf when possible.

Serving Pinellas County, Florida

Based in St. Petersburg, Attorney Martin serves clients across Pinellas County:

• St. Petersburg
• Clearwater
• Largo
• Pinellas Park
• Gulfport
• Seminole
• St. Pete Beach
• Pinellas Beaches

Contact Attorney James W. Martin

If you need a probate or real estate attorney in Pinellas County, Florida, contact James W. Martin for a consultation.

Call: 727-821-0904 Speak directly with Attorney Martin
Email: jim@jamesmartinpa.com

or fill out the contact form below to schedule a consultation.