PROBATE: Formal Administration in Florida

When probate gets complex, I make it simple.
When a loved one passes away in Florida, probate can feel overwhelming. But in many cases, you may qualify for a streamlined process called Summary Administration — a faster and more affordable option.

What is Formal Administration?

Formal Administration is Florida’s full probate process — a court-supervised procedure used when the estate is valued over $75,000 or when otherwise required by law. This process involves appointing a personal representative, notifying creditors, gathering and managing assets, paying debts, and distributing what remains to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries.

When Is Formal Administration Required?

You’ll likely need Formal Administration if:

  • The estate is worth more than $75,000 (excluding exempt assets like homestead property)
  • There are significant debts or disputes among heirs
  • There’s real estate involved that needs to be sold or transferred
  • The decedent passed away recently (within the last two years)
  • A personal representative must be formally appointed

What Does the Formal Administration Process Looks Like?

  1. Start the Case — File the petition and supporting documents
  2. Appoint the PR — Court issues Letters of Administration
  3. Notify Interested Parties — Creditors, heirs, and beneficiaries
  4. Inventory the Estate — Identify and value all assets
  5. Pay Debts & Taxes — Satisfy legitimate creditor claims
  6. Distribute Assets — Transfer remaining property to beneficiaries
  7. Close the Estate — File final accounting and receive discharge

Formal Administration FAQ’s

Most cases take 6 to 12 months, though timing depends on court schedules, complexity, and how quickly assets and debts are resolved. I’ll keep you updated at every step so you’re never in the dark.

Not usually. I handle everything remotely. Clients often live out-of-state and never have to travel. We can meet by phone or Zoom, and I file everything electronically with the court.

Yes, but only if you are related by blood or marriage to the decedent (like a child, spouse, or sibling). If you qualify, I’ll guide you through the appointment process and help you fulfill your legal duties.

Typically, you’ll need the death certificate, the original will (if there is one), a list of assets and debts, and names/addresses of heirs or beneficiaries.

Florida law requires formal notice to creditors. Valid debts are paid from estate assets before anything is distributed. I help you sort through what’s legitimate and what’s not — and in some cases, negotiate or challenge claims.

Yes. Formal Administration is often necessary to transfer or sell Florida real estate.

Yes. If you’re unhappy with your current representation or communication has broken down, I can review the file and take over with the court’s approval.

FREE Probate Checklist

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Why Clients Choose Me

Choosing the right probate attorney matters. Here’s why my clients trust me to handle their probate case:

Most of my clients live outside Florida. I make it easy to handle everything from home. No travel. No courthouse. Everything is handled by phone, Zoom, e-mail, e-signature, and secure portal.

I have been successfully administering Florida probate cases for more than 12 years. Importantly, I don’t dabble. I focus almost exclusively on Florida probate cases. Over the years, I have built the knowledge base, skills, and relationships necessary to handle any situation that may arise as part of a probate case.

No hourly billing for ordinary probate matters. You’ll know the full cost up front — no surprises.

You’ll work directly with me — not a call center, paralegal, or associate attorney. The virtual nature of my practice allows me to take fewer cases and dedicate more time and attention to each client.

Testimonials

  • Eric was extremely knowledgeable, accommodating, and kept me informed every step of the way. I’m so grateful for his expertise.
    Janice P.
  • Eric’s knowledge, professionalism, and kindness made the probate process as easy as possible during our grief. I highly recommend him.
    Lana F.
  • Eric’s timeliness, knowledge, accuracy, and kindness were beyond what I expected. He was always accessible and made the probate process easy to understand.
    Michele T.
  • Eric kept me up to date step by step and always answered my questions. If you need a lawyer for probate, Eric is the person you need.
    Maxine C.
  • Eric’s steady hand, compassion, and rich knowledge of probate made my life so much easier during an otherwise unbearable time.
    Keith P.
  • Eric was extremely diligent and responsive. I appreciated his transparent practice and professionalism.
    Angel O.
  • Eric made the probate process incredibly smooth and stress-free, even from out of state. He was compassionate, responsive, and very experienced.
    Nicole J.
  • Eric explained each step, was responsive to my questions, and made a complex probate process easy to navigate. His professionalism and compassion made a daunting situation manageable.
    Lisa C.

Testimonials edited for space. See full testimonials here.

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The Florida Probate Pro, PLLC is a 100% virtual law firm.
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