Summary Administration vs Formal Administration in Florida

Feb 15

When a loved one passes away in Florida, their estate may need to go through probate. Florida offers two main types of probate: summary administration and formal administration. Understanding the difference between these two options can help families choose the fastest and most cost-effective approach.

What Is Summary Administration?

Summary administration is a simplified probate process designed for smaller estates or situations where the person has been deceased for more than two years.

Summary administration is available when:

• The total value of probate assets is $75,000 or less, or

• The person has been deceased for more than two years

Key benefits of summary administration include:

• Faster timeline (often 2–8 weeks)

• Lower legal costs

• No personal representative required

• Less court supervision

This process is commonly used to transfer real estate, bank accounts, and other assets quickly.

What Is Formal Administration?

Formal administration is the full probate process required for larger or more complex estates.

Formal administration is typically required when:

• The estate value exceeds $75,000, and

• The death occurred within the last two years

Formal administration involves:

• Appointment of a personal representative

• Notifying creditors

• Collecting and managing assets

• Paying debts

• Distributing assets to beneficiaries

This process typically takes 6–12 months or longer.

Key Differences Between Summary and Formal Administration:

Summary Administration:

• Faster and simpler process

• No personal representative required

• Available for smaller estates

• Usually completed in weeks

Formal Administration:

• Required for larger estates

• Requires personal representative

• Includes creditor claim period

• Usually takes several months

Which Option Applies to Your Situation?

The appropriate probate process depends on the value of the estate, the type of assets involved, and when the person passed away. Many estates qualify for summary administration, which is significantly faster and more affordable.

Flat-Fee Summary Administration Starting at $1,500 – Karten Legal

Karten Legal helps families throughout Broward County, Palm Beach County, Miami-Dade County, and all South Florida communities complete probate efficiently and affordably.

We offer flat-fee summary administration starting at $1,500 and guide clients through every step of the probate process.

Our services include:

• Preparing and filing probate petitions

• Handling court filings

• Assisting with transfer of real estate

• Ensuring probate is completed properly

Schedule Your Free Consultation

If you are unsure whether summary or formal administration applies, Karten Legal can help you determine the best option.

Visit www.KartenLegal.com to schedule your free consultation.

Karten Legal

Estate Planning & Probate Attorney

Serving South Florida