Boynton Beach City Probate Court Records are maintained at the Palm Beach County Courthouse in West Palm Beach, Florida. The city of Boynton Beach does not operate its own probate court.
All probate filings, hearings, and public records for Boynton Beach residents go through the Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court under the 15th Judicial Circuit. Anyone can search these records online, by mail, or in person at the main courthouse. This page explains how to find probate case files, what types of records exist, what fees apply, and how the process works for estates opened by people who lived in Boynton Beach.
Where Boynton Beach Probate Records Are Kept
Boynton Beach sits inside Palm Beach County. Florida law says probate cases must be filed in the county where the deceased person lived. For every Boynton Beach resident, that county is Palm Beach. The 15th Judicial Circuit Court serves Palm Beach County only. All probate cases for Boynton Beach residents are filed and stored at the Palm Beach County Courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, about 15 miles north of Boynton Beach.
Palm Beach County Courthouse Location
The main Palm Beach County Courthouse handles all probate matters for the county. The Clerk of Courts office is located on the first floor and handles filings, record requests, and certified copies. The courthouse is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except for court holidays.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Clerk of Court | Joseph Abruzzo |
| Address | 205 N Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 |
| Phone | (561) 355-2994 |
| Website | mypalmbeachclerk.com |
| Hours | Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Judicial Circuit | 15th Circuit |
Why Boynton Beach Uses the County Court
Florida does not have city-level probate courts. Probate jurisdiction belongs to the circuit courts in each county. The city of Boynton Beach handles only municipal matters like business licenses, local ordinances, and city services. Wills, estates, and probate filings fall under state law and county court authority. The Palm Beach County Clerk’s office is the official record keeper for all probate cases filed in the county.
How to Search Boynton Beach Probate Records Online
The Palm Beach County Clerk operates a free online portal that lets anyone search probate records from a computer or phone. The portal is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No account or login is required to view basic case details. Users can search by the decedent’s last name, first name, case number, or filing date.
Steps to Use the Online Portal
The online search system lets you look up any probate case filed in Palm Beach County. Most Boynton Beach estates appear in this system because all county probate cases go through the same clerk’s office. Here are the steps to follow when searching the portal:
- Visit mypalmbeachclerk.com from any web browser.
- Click on the “Case Search” or “Court Records” link on the homepage.
- Select “Probate” as the case type from the dropdown menu.
- Enter the decedent’s last name in the search field. Add a first name if known to narrow results.
- Review the list of matching cases with names, case numbers, filing dates, and current status.
- Click on a specific case to view the full docket and document list.
- Download available documents or order certified copies through the portal.
What Records Show in Public Searches
Most probate records in Florida are open to the public. Anyone can view the case number, names of the personal representative and beneficiaries, filing dates, hearing schedules, and the case status. The full docket, including motions, petitions, and orders, is also public. Some documents are sealed by law. Inventories of estate assets, accountings, and certain financial records are confidential and do not appear in public searches.
Types of Probate Cases Filed in Palm Beach County
Florida law provides three main paths for handling a deceased person’s estate. The right path depends on the value of the estate, the type of assets, and how long the person has been deceased. Each path creates a different type of case file at the Palm Beach County Courthouse.
Formal Administration
Formal administration is the standard probate process. It applies when the deceased person’s non-exempt assets are worth more than $75,000. The court appoints a personal representative, who gathers assets, pays debts, and distributes what remains to heirs. The personal representative files paperwork with the court at every stage. Formal administration takes six months to a year or more to complete, depending on the complexity of the estate and any disputes among heirs.
Summary Administration
Summary administration is a simpler process for smaller estates. It applies when non-exempt assets are $75,000 or less, or when the person died more than two years ago. No personal representative is appointed. The petitioner files a single petition and a proposed order showing how assets should be distributed. If the court approves, assets can be transferred in a matter of weeks. Boynton Beach has many retirees, so summary administration is common in this area.
Disposition Without Administration
Disposition without administration is the fastest option. It only applies when the deceased person owned no real property, had no debts other than funeral and medical bills, and had total assets under $6,000. The person handling the estate files a simple form at the clerk’s counter. No court hearing takes place, and no formal case file is opened. The clerk issues a receipt that allows the person to claim the assets.
Filing Fees and Court Costs in Palm Beach County
Probate filing fees in Palm Beach County follow Florida’s state fee schedule. Costs vary based on the type of case and the size of the estate. The clerk’s office updates fees periodically, so always confirm the current amount before filing. The fees listed below reflect common costs as of 2026, but call the clerk’s office to verify exact amounts.
- Formal administration initial filing fee: around $400 or more
- Summary administration filing fee: between $235 and $300
- Disposition without administration: lower flat fee, often under $200
- Notice to creditors publication: charged by a local newspaper, usually a few hundred dollars
- Certified copy of letters of administration: per page plus per document certification
- Personal representative bond: depends on estate value and bonding company rates
Attorney fees in Florida probate follow a statutory rate. The default rate is 3% of the first $1 million of the gross estate value. Personal representatives also receive a statutory fee for their work. Both fees are paid from estate funds. Parties can ask the court to approve higher or lower fees based on the work involved.
The Probate Process for Boynton Beach Estates
When a Boynton Beach resident dies and probate is required, the case follows a set order of steps at the Palm Beach County Courthouse. The process can take several months to more than a year for formal administration. Summary administration takes much less time. Below is a breakdown of how each major step works.
Step 1: File the Will with the Clerk
Under Florida Statute 732.901, anyone who has the original will of a deceased person must file it with the clerk within 10 days of the death. This rule applies even if probate will not be opened. The clerk keeps the will as a permanent public record. Filing the will is free in most cases. The 10-day deadline is strict, and failure to file can result in penalties.
Step 2: File the Petition for Administration
The next step is filing a petition to open the estate. The petition names the deceased person, the person asking to be appointed personal representative, and the heirs. The petition must include the death certificate and the original will, if one exists. The court reviews the petition to confirm the proposed personal representative qualifies under Florida law. Florida has strict rules about who can serve. Non-residents who are not close relatives generally cannot serve as personal representative.
Step 3: Notify Known Creditors and Publish Notice
Once the court appoints the personal representative, that person receives letters of administration. These letters give legal authority to manage the estate. The personal representative must then send written notice to all known creditors. They must also publish a notice to creditors in a local newspaper once a week for two consecutive weeks. Creditors have three months from the first publication date to file claims against the estate.
Step 4: File Inventory and Pay Debts
During the creditor claim period, the personal representative prepares an inventory of all estate assets. The inventory is filed with the court but is kept confidential. After the three-month creditor period ends, the personal representative pays valid debts and taxes from estate funds. Disputed claims may require a court hearing before payment.
Step 5: Distribute Assets and Close the Estate
After all debts and taxes are paid, the personal representative distributes the remaining assets to the heirs according to the will or Florida law. They then file a final accounting and a petition for discharge. The court reviews the accounting and, if everything is in order, issues an order closing the estate. The personal representative is released from their duties at this point.
Requesting Certified Copies of Probate Records
Certified copies of probate documents are often needed for banks, insurance companies, real estate transfers, and other legal matters. A regular printed copy is not enough for most official uses. The Palm Beach County Clerk offers certified copies through three methods. The method you choose depends on how fast you need the document and what type of document you need.
- In person at the clerk’s office on the first floor of the courthouse
- By mail with a written request and payment
- Online through the clerk’s request portal for certain common documents
Fees for certified copies are charged per page plus a certification fee per document. Payment can be made by cash, check, money order, or credit card in person. Mail orders typically require a check or money order. The clerk’s website lists current fees. Allow extra time for mail orders, and add a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery.
Accessing Older Probate Records and Archives
Probate cases filed many years ago may be stored in the county’s records archives rather than the active clerk’s office. If you are looking for a case that was closed decades ago, the clerk’s office can help you request archived records. Turnaround time for archived records is longer than for recent cases. You may need to schedule an appointment to view older files. Some very old records have been digitized and are available online, while others require an in-person visit to the records storage area.
Legal Resources for Boynton Beach Residents
People handling a probate case in Boynton Beach have several legal resources available. Some services are free for those who qualify based on income. Others charge standard legal fees. The resources below are the most commonly used by Palm Beach County residents dealing with probate matters.
Palm Beach County Bar Association Lawyer Referral
The Palm Beach County Bar Association runs a lawyer referral service that connects residents with local probate attorneys. Call (561) 687-2800 or visit the bar association website to get a referral. The service charges a small fee for the initial consultation. After that, fees are set by the attorney you choose to work with.
Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County
Legal Aid provides free civil legal help to residents who meet income limits. They may assist with certain probate matters, especially when there is fraud, abuse, or a vulnerable adult involved. The office is in West Palm Beach and serves all of Palm Beach County, including Boynton Beach. Call (561) 655-8944 to ask about eligibility.
Self-Help Resources at the Courthouse
The 15th Judicial Circuit offers self-help services for people who want to handle simple probate matters without an attorney. The self-help center is located at the courthouse and provides forms, instructions, and basic procedural help. The staff cannot give legal advice, but they can answer questions about which forms to use and how to file them. This option works best for summary administration cases with no disputes.
Online Access to Palm Beach County Probate Records
The electronic records system at the Palm Beach County Clerk’s office gives the public access to probate case files through any device with internet access. The system includes scanned images of filed documents, docket entries, and case status updates. New filings appear in the system within a few business days of being processed by the clerk. Some older documents may only be available as physical records.
For people who need regular access to probate records for research, business, or legal work, the system offers a stable, searchable database. Real estate professionals, genealogists, financial institutions, and attorneys use the system to verify estate information. The database covers formal administration, summary administration, and ancillary probate cases filed in Palm Beach County.
Common Questions About Boynton Beach Probate Records
People who search for probate records often have similar questions. The answers below cover the most common questions asked by Boynton Beach residents and others with a need to access Palm Beach County probate files.
Are probate records public in Boynton Beach?
Yes. Most probate records in Florida are public records. Anyone can search for and view case information, including the names of the deceased, heirs, and personal representative. Some documents are sealed by law, including inventories of estate assets and accountings. These confidential records are only available to specific parties listed in the case.
Can I search probate records by name?
Yes. The Palm Beach County Clerk’s online portal allows searches by the decedent’s first and last name. You can also search by case number or filing date. Searching by name is the most common method. To narrow results, add a first name and a date range.
How do I find out if someone has a will on file?
You can search the clerk’s online system using the person’s name. If a will was filed, the case record will show the filing. Wills filed under Florida Statute 732.901 appear as a separate record, even if no probate case was opened. You can also contact the clerk’s office by phone at (561) 355-2994.
What does it cost to get a copy of a probate document?
Regular copies are charged per page. Certified copies cost more because each certified document carries an extra fee. The clerk’s website lists current rates. Payment methods depend on how you request the copy. In-person orders accept cash, check, or card. Mail orders require a check or money order.
How long does probate take in Palm Beach County?
The timeline depends on the type of case. Summary administration often finishes in 2 to 3 months. Formal administration typically takes 6 months to a year, and complex cases can take longer. Cases with disputes, tax issues, or hard-to-sell assets take more time. The court sets deadlines for each step, but extensions are common.
Can I handle probate without a lawyer in Florida?
Yes, but only in simple cases. Florida allows people to represent themselves in probate for summary administration of small estates. Formal administration cases are more complex and usually require an attorney. The court’s self-help center can assist with simple filings. Working with a probate lawyer is strongly recommended for any case with real property, debts, or family disputes.
Where do I find the case number for a probate case?
The case number is shown in the search results on the clerk’s online portal. It starts with a year and case type code, such as “2026 CP” for a 2026 probate case. You can also get the case number by calling the clerk’s office with the decedent’s name and date of death. The clerk’s staff can look it up in the system.
Contact the Palm Beach County Clerk for Probate Records
The Palm Beach County Clerk’s office is the official record keeper for all probate cases filed in the county. The contact details below are the best ways to reach the clerk for questions about probate records, filing procedures, certified copies, and case status. The main courthouse is located at 205 N Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Office hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
- Official website: mypalmbeachclerk.com
- Main phone line: (561) 355-2994
- Address: 205 N Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
- Office hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed on official Florida court holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions cover the most common concerns about searching, accessing, and understanding Boynton Beach City Probate Court Records. These answers reflect current Florida law and Palm Beach County Clerk procedures as of 2026. They are written to help both first-time searchers and people who need detailed probate records for legal or personal reasons.
What is the difference between formal and summary administration?
Formal administration is the full probate process used for larger estates. The court appoints a personal representative who manages every step, from gathering assets to paying debts and distributing property. Formal administration takes at least six months and costs more in fees. Summary administration skips most of these steps. It is used for small estates worth $75,000 or less, or for people who died more than two years ago. The court does not appoint a personal representative, and the process usually finishes in a few months. Both case types are filed at the Palm Beach County Courthouse.
Can I view probate records from my phone?
Yes. The Palm Beach County Clerk’s online portal works on phones, tablets, and computers. The mobile version lets you search cases, view dockets, and download documents. The portal is free to use. You only need an internet connection. Some older documents may not be viewable on mobile and require a desktop browser or in-person visit.
What if the deceased person lived in Boynton Beach but owned property in another state?
You must open probate in Florida for the Boynton Beach resident’s estate. Florida law requires probate in the county of residence. Property in another state is handled through a process called ancillary probate in that other state. The Florida personal representative can petition the other state’s court to handle the out-of-state property. Many people hire attorneys in both states for these cases.
Are there fees to search probate records online?
No. Searching probate records through the Palm Beach County Clerk’s online portal is free. You can view case information, dockets, and document lists without paying. Fees only apply when you request certified copies of documents or want to download certain official records. The basic search and view functions are open to the public at no charge.
How do I find the date a probate case was filed?
The filing date appears in the search results on the clerk’s online portal. It is listed next to the case number and party names. The date format is month/day/year. You can also request this information by calling the clerk’s office at (561) 355-2994. The clerk’s staff can look up the case by name and confirm the filing date.
What happens if no one files a will after a death?
Under Florida Statute 732.901, anyone with the original will must file it with the clerk within 10 days of the death. Failure to file can result in court penalties. The duty applies even if the person does not plan to open probate. Filing the will puts it on the public record and protects the deceased’s wishes. The clerk stores the will permanently, even if no estate case is opened.
Can I get a death certificate from the probate court?
No. The probate court does not issue death certificates. Death certificates are issued by the Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics. You can order certified copies online, by mail, or in person. A certified death certificate is required when filing a probate petition. The clerk’s office will not accept a regular copy.