Formal Administration

Guiding You Through the Probate Process

When a loved one passes away, handling their estate can be an emotional and complex process. In Florida, one of the most common probate proceedings is Formal Administration, which is typically required when the estate’s assets exceed $75,000 or when there are complicated circumstances, such as disputes over the will or multiple beneficiaries. Formal administration involves the legal process of transferring the deceased’s assets to their heirs or beneficiaries while ensuring that any debts or taxes are paid.

At BCN Law Firm, our experienced probate attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the formal administration process. We understand that this is a challenging time, and our goal is to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. With our expertise, you can focus on honoring your loved one’s memory while we handle the legal complexities of their estate.

Central Florida Probate Attorneys

At BCN Law Firm, we provide compassionate, knowledgeable legal support to help you navigate the formal administration process efficiently. We understand that managing an estate during a difficult time can feel overwhelming, and our goal is to make the process as seamless as possible for you. With decades of experience in probate law, we ensure that every step is handled with care, accuracy, and attention to detail.

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Experienced Probate Attorneys

Formal Administration is the traditional and more involved form of probate in Florida. It is used when the estate’s assets are valued at over $75,000 or when there are significant legal factors that make simpler forms of probate, like Summative Administration, inapplicable. Formal administration typically involves appointing a personal representative (also known as an executor) to manage the estate’s assets, pay debts, and distribute what remains to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries.

Key aspects of Formal Administration include:

Appointing a personal representative to oversee the estate
Identifying and valuing the estate’s assets
Notifying creditors and paying off debts
Filing necessary court documents and legal notices
Distributing assets to heirs or beneficiaries as outlined in the will or by Florida law

How BCN Law Firm Can Help

Petition for Probate

We handle the necessary paperwork and file the petition for formal administration with the probate court on your behalf.

Appointment of Personal Representative

If you are named as the personal representative, we will guide you through your duties, ensuring that you manage the estate in compliance with Florida law.

Asset Identification and Valuation

Our team will help identify, locate, and assess the value of the estate’s assets, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Debt Resolution

We assist in notifying creditors, resolving outstanding debts, and handling tax obligations to prevent any future legal complications.

Distribution of Assets

Once the estate’s debts have been settled, we ensure that assets are distributed to heirs and beneficiaries as intended, following the terms of the will or Florida’s intestacy laws if no will exists.

Frequently Asked Questions About Formal Administration

Formal Administration is required when the estate’s assets exceed $75,000, or if the estate includes real property or involves multiple beneficiaries. It is also necessary when there are disputes over the will or other legal complexities that require court supervision.

The timeline can vary depending on the size and complexity of the estate, but formal administration typically takes six months to a year to complete. Delays can occur if there are disputes among beneficiaries or if creditors’ claims need to be resolved.

The personal representative is responsible for managing the estate, which includes collecting and valuing assets, notifying creditors, paying debts, filing taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. Our attorneys will help you fulfill these duties in compliance with Florida law.

Speak To An Attorney

Need help with Formal Administration in probate? BCN Law Firm’s experienced probate attorneys provide compassionate guidance through every step of the process. Contact us for a free consultation!

352-394-2103

Meet Our Dedicated Attorneys

Legal Team Ready to Fight for Your Rights

Wade Boyette, J.D., LLM.

Partner

Bankruptcy, Estate Planning, Foreclosure Defense, Probate

Wade Boyette, J.D., LLM. Wade Boyette, J.D., LLM, was born in Estill, South Carolina, in…

Heath B. Nailos, J.D.

Partner

Auto Accidents, Personal Injury

Heath B. Nailos, J.D. Heath B. Nailos, J.D. was born in 1969 in Atlanta, Georgia,…

Kristin Cummins Nailos, J.D.

O.F. Counsel

Real Estate

Kristin Cummins Nailos, J.D. Was born in 1970 in Leesburg, Florida and has resided in…

Ken Costello, J.D.

Partner

Bankruptcy, Estate Planning, Foreclosure Defense, Probate

Ken Costello, J.D. Ken Costello is an associate at Boyette, Cummins & Nailos, PLLC. His…

Michelle C. Bottex, J.D.

Attorney

Criminal Law, Family Law

Michelle C. Bottex, J.D. Ms. Bottex earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration…

Norman C. Cummins, J.D.

Legacy Partner

Norman C. Cummins, J.D. Was born in 1938 in Louisville, Kentucky. He received his Bachelor…

Michelle Ha

Attorney

Business Law, Estate Planning, Probate, Real Estate

Michelle T. Ha Michelle T. Ha is an associate attorney and is licensed to practice…

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Denis Labbe

BCN Law Firm - My wife and I had a great experience with Wade and his staff. Professional with a personal touch. We had all our estate planning needs taken care efficiently at a fair rate. Very pleased with BCN Law Firm.

Bryan Griffaw

BNC is the best law firm that ive ever seen. They were very very helpful. Thank you so much i greatly appreciate it.

Dee Healey

BCN law firm in Clermont is very professional and put me at ease throughout my legal issue. I worked with Carol and she is very knowledgeable and has great customer service. She was always available to answer any questions or concerns. I highly recommend BCN law firm.

Linda Rando

Our experiences with this company has been amazing! They explain everything very well and take time with us. Now we feel secure about our choices. Thank you Wade!

Dana Lemme

Yes, Carol Crowe, the legal assistant. Has handled our case Bankruptcy flawlessly. He’s very personal and so was a great kindness towards us who are tough times has helped immensely through our progress a case she truly is a good person as well as a legal assistant really appreciate her help. I just wanted to let you know You have a very good employee. Without her we would’ve been lost Going through the procedure thanks again for having her assistance ! Dana and Francine Lemme

Latisha Pierre

BCN Law firm is amazing. They are very attentive, and helpful to my husband and I. Carol Crowe has always been our direct person of contact. She is wonderful, and a true gem. She’s always willing to help by answering all of our questions, concerns, and needs. We would like to express a sincere “Thank You”. Carol we
truly love, and appreciate all that you do.

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Boyette Cummins Nailos Attorneys provide a wonderful service for legal counsel and representation. Highly recommend them.

Barbara Baggette Marsters

I never felt the warmth in other attorneys offices that I felt here. They are very professional and knowledgeable and accommodating in every way!.

I would recommend the services of Carol Crowe 100%, only if you want to be treated as a valuable person and treated with respect.
Paperwork is handled efficiently and on time .