Summary Administration Lawyer in Fort Myers
Legal Counsel from Experienced Attorneys
In the State of Florida, there is a short form of probate available to certain estates known as summary administrations. If certain requirements are met, Summary Administration can distribute an estate’s assets quicker than any other form of probate with the intention of avoiding probate court altogether.
In order for an estate to qualify for summary administration in Florida, it must be:
- Owned by someone who passed away more than 24 months ago OR
- The Estate must be valued at less than $75,000
If you need help understanding summary administration and whether or not your loved one’s estate can qualify for it, Your Advocates can help you with all of your questions and concerns. We have been serving members of Lee County for years, specializing in probate law cases for clients of all walks of life.
Schedule a free consultation with one of our Fort Myers probate advocates today for assistance tailored just for you.
Important Components of the Summary Administration Process
Based on the probate process in Florida, after you have determined if your loved one’s estate is eligible for summary administration, there are a few steps that must be taken into consideration, including:
- Petition for Summary Administration: A document that must first be signed and approved by a surviving spouse, if able, and then filed with a county clerk by an executor or inheritor.
- Validity of Claim: You will have to prove to Florida State court officials that the estate in question is even eligible for summary administration. This should be simple with an attorney’s help.
- Describing Assets: Create a list of the assets in question and their value – for larger items, such as houses or family heirlooms, an appraisal may be necessary beforehand – to be filed alongside the petition.
- Distribution: You will also have to provide a detailed summary of who you propose should inherit each asset and why. Suspicious or unreasonable claims may lead to a denial of summary administration.
- Filing Fees: As with so many government processes, you will have to pay filing fees – typically between $300 and $400– whether or not the summary administration is officially approved.
If the court ultimately approves your request for summary administration, there will not be an appointed personal representative. Instead, orders will be issued for an immediate distribution according to the petition served in the probate case. It should be noted that in most cases, it is not advisable to request a summary administration for an estate that has outstanding debts or unresolved claims. It may also not be advisable to utilize a summary procedure if there is a possibility a will is going to be contested.
Using Summary Administration with the Help of a Fort Myers Lawyer
In Florida, an estate is required to be represented by an attorney in any estate administration process. Don’t take chances with your loved one’s estates, no matter the circumstances or the value of the assets. You deserve the highest quality of representation possible.
Your Advocates can provide you with the experience, legal advice, and professional guidance you need. Contact us today for friendly, knowledgeable assistance with your probate matters. If you are an AARP member, we offer a special discount.
Meet Your Guides
With You Every Step of The Way
Hear From Our Happy Clients
Reviews & Testimonials
At Your Advocates, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
-
"Ms. Jackman just wanted to say what a GREAT JOB you did."
Ms. Jackman just wanted to say what a GREAT JOB you did. Thanks for making a nervous process easier to handle!! Take care!
- Mark Z. -
"They were very efficient, pleasant, and professional."
They were very efficient, pleasant, and professional. Based on this very positive experience, we would recommend this company, and would not hesitate to use them again in the future.
- Former Client -
"The firm surely does stand by its name as Your Advocates!"
He was extremely professional throughout the journey and very experienced in this matter. I would recommend this firm to anybody in an uncontested eviction, contested eviction or any legal needs. The professionalism and value I received was a pleasant surp
- Terry A. -
"Highly Recommended!"
I worked with Rita Jackman, she is very much respectful, she breaks down all the details, and cares about her clients‼️ ...
- Rittney O. -
"I’ll definitely be sending family and friends your way."
Rita Jackman is my attorney and I can’t recommend her enough! She’s been truly amazing through a difficult time. She always ...
- Jordan H. -
"There was never a day that one of them didn't respond by phone or email to our questions or concerns."
Rita Jackman was incredible working with us on my daughter's injury case and negotiating on her behalf. Thank you Noelle for ...
- Brad M. -
"I will not hesitate to recommend them and I will be calling them the next time I need any help."
Noel took great care of us! She was very helpful, professional, on point and an absolute pleasure to have on our side ...
- Joseph B. -
"Diana's experience, professionalism, and dedication resulted in a most favorable outcome of my case and her negotiation skills proved it."
I had the pleasure of working with Diana Castrillon on my workers' compensation case and the least I can say is that she is ...
- Alberto S.