Estate resolution isn’t just paperwork and court filings. Behind every case is a family story, a set of legal complexities, and real people whose lives are affected by how an estate is handled.

As General Counsel at EstateCo, David Berman’s role goes far beyond probate administration. It involves navigating layered legal systems, protecting heirs’ rights, and stepping in when timing, documentation, or circumstance could mean the difference between stability and loss. The work requires precision, creativity, and a deep respect for the lives tied to every estate.

Here’s a closer look at David’s role, in his own words.

In your own words, what do you do at EstateCo?

As General Counsel, I handle all legal matters that affect EstateCo and its clients. The majority of my work focuses on probate administration and other legal actions that impact real estate in the various estate administrations.

What part of your work matters most to you — the thing you wish every heir understood?

From a personal perspective, that we truly care about the heirs and the legacy of their deceased family members and friends. From a business perspective, that EstateCo has a vested interest in the heirs’ recovery of estate assets.

What’s one moment in your job that reminded you why this work is important?

A couple of estates stand out. With one of the estates, we found the decedent’s son and sole heir, who was believed to be dead himself, living in squalor in the estate property (no power, no water, etc.). We assisted him in obtaining a driver’s license, new housing, and even a vehicle, in addition to the proceeds from the sale of his father’s house. It completely turned his life around.

On the second estate, we were able to find heirs who were connected to the decedent as the heirs of the decedent’s last surviving spouse (i.e., they were the niece and nephew of the decedent’s pre-deceased wife), and they had been raised by the decedent as though the decedent was their grandfather, even though there was no blood relation. We were able to get the property, which they were living in, sold about a week before it went to public auction and assisted them in finding new housing. If EstateCo hadn’t interceded, there is no doubt in my mind they would have lost the house. Any proceeds from a public auction would have been forfeited to the State because no probate took place connecting the heirs to the decedent, and they likely would have been homeless, as they had no funds to secure alternative housing.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about your work?

It often requires creativity. Navigating the layers of genealogy and Florida law to determine who is entitled to estate assets and what they are entitled to, and then figuring out the proper documentation to present to the probate court, often takes creativity and patience.

What do you love doing when you’re not working?

Spending time with my wife and kids, especially travelling and going on cruises. In the last few years, we’ve been to the Bahamas, New York, Philadelphia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Washington, D.C., and, most recently, New Orleans. I like to tie in popular movies with the destinations, like National Treasure for Philadelphia, NY & DC, or Night at the Museum for NY & DC, so my kids have more interest in where we’re visiting and what we’re seeing.

Contact EstateCo Today

The legal side of estate recovery often happens quietly, but the impact is real. When probate and property issues are handled with care, families gain clarity, protection, and a fair path forward.

If EstateCo has reached out to you regarding an estate, it means that meaningful diligence has already taken place. Connecting with the team can help you understand your options and ensure the estate is handled thoughtfully, compassionately, and correctly.