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The information on this page applies to Florida law. If you have legal questions in another state, please consult an attorney licensed in that jurisdiction.

Formal Probate Administration in Florida

Formal administration is the standard Florida probate process, required for estates that do not qualify for summary administration. Under Chapter 733 of the Florida Statutes, formal administration involves appointing a personal representative, publishing a Notice to Creditors, marshaling estate assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remainder to beneficiaries.

In Miami-Dade County, formal administration must remain open for a minimum of three months after publication of the Notice to Creditors, which is required by Florida law. Most uncomplicated formal administrations close in six to nine months. Complex estates — with disputes, creditor claims, real estate sales, or multi-state assets — can take longer.

The personal representative has legal duties and potential personal liability if they fail to properly administer the estate. Aguila Law provides step-by-step guidance to personal representatives throughout the process, from appointment through final distribution.

If you have been named personal representative of a Florida estate, contact us as early as possible. Probate deadlines begin running from the date of death.

Call (305) 967-8554 to schedule a probate consultation.

The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Case results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any future case.

Attorney: Carlos C. Aguila, Esq. | Florida Bar No. 109634 | This is an attorney advertisement.

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