A Miami summary administration attorney can help families complete probate faster when an estate qualifies for Florida’s simplified probate process. Summary administration is often available when the probate estate is valued at $75,000 or less or when the decedent passed away more than two years ago.

At Perez-Roura Law, we help families determine eligibility, prepare court filings, transfer assets, and complete the probate process efficiently. Our goal is to simplify probate while protecting the interests of heirs and beneficiaries.

Who Qualifies for Summary Administration in Florida?

Florida law allows summary administration if the total value of a decedent’s probate assets (excluding exempt property) is $75,000 or less, or if the individual passed away more than two years ago. This procedure doesn’t require a personal representative (executor) and involves fewer filings, shorter timelines, and reduced court involvement. We review your family’s circumstances to confirm eligibility, identify all probate and non‑probate assets, and help determine the best course of action based on what the decedent owned and how it was titled.

Filing the Summary Administration Petition

The process begins by preparing and filing a petition for summary administration with the probate court. This petition outlines who has passed away, what assets remain, who the heirs are, and confirms that all known debts are settled or accounted for. At Perez‑Roura Law, we draft all required documents, affidavits, and waivers and ensure everything complies with Florida probate rules. If creditors must be notified, we manage publication and affidavit filings to avoid delays or objections.

Handling Debts and Creditor Claims in Summary Administration

Even in summary probate, debt resolution matters. We help determine if creditor claims apply, assist with negotiations or payments where appropriate, and comply with required notice procedures under Florida law. If two years have passed since death, creditor claims are usually barred, simplifying the process. Where debts remain, we help ensure asset distributions don’t violate the order of payment priority or trigger future legal issues for beneficiaries.

Asset Transfers After Summary Administration

Once the court approves the petition, a summary administration order is issued. This order directs financial institutions, county recorders, or other parties to transfer assets—such as bank accounts, real property, or personal belongings—to heirs. We assist clients in using this court order to complete transfers, retitle assets, and provide legal proof of authority to third parties. For families with out-of-state heirs or complex holdings, we offer coordinated guidance at every step.

When Formal Administration May Be Required

Sometimes estates start as summary and later shift to formal administration—if unexpected assets are discovered or litigation arises. We evaluate the risks and benefits of summary probate upfront, and if formal probate becomes necessary later, we help clients transition without delay. Our proactive approach means fewer surprises and better long-term legal outcomes for all beneficiaries involved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Summary Administration

What is summary administration in Florida?

Summary administration is a simplified probate process available for qualifying estates. It generally applies when probate assets are worth $75,000 or less, and the decedent passed away more than two years ago.

How long does summary administration take?

Most summary administration cases are completed more quickly than formal probate, though timelines vary by court and estate complexity

Does summary administration require a personal representative?

No. Unlike formal administration, summary administration generally does not require the appointment of a personal representative.

Can real estate be transferred through summary administration?

Yes. Real property may be transferred by court order during the summary administration process.

Summary administration can provide a faster and more cost-effective way to settle a qualifying Florida estate. Perez-Roura Law helps Miami families navigate every step of the process, from eligibility determination to asset transfers and estate closure. Contact our Miami summary administration attorney to discuss your situation and learn your options.