A Community-Focused Law Firm That’s Here For You

Settle Your Loved One’s Estate Efficiently Using Summary Probate Administration

C.J. Hilliard Law, P.A., is a trusted resource for Florida families seeking professional yet affordable probate solutions. Ours is a community-oriented law firm, and our entire team is committed to doing right by our clients.

Our founding attorney, Claire J. Hilliard, is well-known in the Orlando area for her legal skills and advocacy on behalf of clients. Orlando Style Magazine included her in its list of lawyers of the year, and she was named Winter Garden’s lawyer of the year by BusinessRate. No matter what your probate needs may be, she is ready to help.

How Summary Administration Differs From Formal Probate

Summary probate administration is a streamlined version of the probate process in Florida and is particularly appropriate for small estates. Unlike formal probate, summary administration does not require the appointment of a personal representative (executor).

This simplified probate process typically involves fewer court proceedings and less paperwork, making it a quicker and more cost-effective option. By simplifying complexities and shortening timelines, summary administration can save significant time and resources for the beneficiaries involved. Not all estates will qualify, however.

Eligibility Requirements For Summary Administration In Florida

For an estate to be eligible for summary administration in Florida, it must meet one of the two following criteria:

  1. The total value of the estate subject to probate is $75,000 or less, excluding exempt property.
  2. The decedent has been deceased for more than two years, regardless of the estate’s value.

In addition to meeting one of the conditions above, it is also a good idea to ensure that:

  • All beneficiaries are in agreement with the use of summary administration.
  • There are no outstanding debts that exceed the value of the estate’s assets, or provisions have been made for the payment of such debts.
  • The estate is not involved in any pending estate litigation that would require formal probate administration.

Individuals often go into the estate planning process with the goal of avoiding or at least simplifying probate. By placing many assets into a trust, for instance, those assets would no longer be subject to probate and would lower the value of the remaining probate estate.

The Importance Of Consulting A Skilled Summary Probate Administration Attorney

Even though summary probate is a simplified probate process, enlisting the help of a probate lawyer like attorney Hilliard is still a wise decision. She can provide efficient guidance through estate administration, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and preventing potential issues that may arise, such as disputes among beneficiaries or complications with creditors.

Additionally, Ms. Hilliard and the rest of our team can assist in accurately valuing the estate’s assets and managing any necessary paperwork. There is considerable peace of mind in the knowledge that the probate process is handled by a professional, allowing you to focus on other important matters during this time.

Learn More During An Initial Consultation

Conveniently located in Winter Garden, C.J. Hilliard Law, P.A., serves clients throughout the Orlando metro area. To discuss your probate needs and learn how our firm can assist you, simply contact us online or call 407-255-7607.