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Fla. Prob. R. 5.215

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Rule 5.215 Authenticated Copy of Will

Part II: Probate

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Rule Text

An authenticated copy of a will may be admitted to probate if the original could be admitted to probate in Florida.

Plain-English Summary (for reference only — not a substitute for the rule text above)

If someone dies and their original will is located in another state or country, Florida courts can still accept a certified copy of that will. The copy must be officially verified, meaning it has been confirmed as a true and accurate copy by the proper authorities.

The key requirement is that the will would have been accepted by Florida courts if the original had been presented. As long as the will meets Florida's standards, the court will treat the authenticated copy the same way it would treat the original document.

Summary generated March 19, 2026

Committee Notes

Rule History 2002 Revision: New rule, derived from former rule 5.210(a)(4). 2003 Revision: Committee notes revised. Statutory References § 733.205, Fla. Stat. Probate of notarial will. § 733.206, Fla. Stat. Probate of will of resident after foreign probate. § 734.102, Fla. Stat. Ancillary administration. § 734.1025, Fla. Stat. Nonresident decedent’s testate estate with property not exceeding $50,000 in this state; determination of claims.

§ 734.104, Fla. Stat. Foreign wills; admission to record; effect on title. Rule References Fla. Prob. R. 5.200 Petition for administration. Fla. Prob. R. 5.210 Probate of wills without administration. Fla. Prob. R. 5.470 Ancillary administration. Fla. Prob. R. 5.475 Ancillary administration, short form.

← Previous Rule 5.210: Probate of Wills Without Administration Next → Rule 5.216: Will Written in Foreign Language