Fast-Track Probate in Brevard County: Florida Summary Administration Expertise

Sibley Law & Associates, PLLC – Your Guide to the Quickest Probate Path for Eligible Estates in Brevard County. Honoring Legacy Efficiently

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Seeking the Simplest Probate Solution in Brevard County?

Losing a loved one is difficult enough without facing a lengthy and complex court process. Fortunately, for many families in Brevard County, Florida law offers a simplified and expedited probate procedure called Summary Administration. When an estate qualifies, this process allows assets to be distributed to beneficiaries much faster and typically with less expense than standard Formal Administration.


If you believe your loved one's estate might be eligible for this quicker path, Sibley Law & Associates, PLLC is here to help. Located in Melbourne and serving families throughout Brevard County, our firm possesses the specific knowledge required to navigate Summary Administration efficiently and effectively.


While led by Attorney Dee Sibley, recognized as one of Brevard County's Top Estate Planning Lawyers, we are also highly experienced in handling the various forms of probate administration, including this valuable streamlined option. We guide Brevard County families through the necessary legal steps with precision and care, aiming to settle qualified estates promptly.

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What Exactly is Summary Administration in Florida?

Summary Administration is a specific type of probate defined by Florida Statutes, designed for estates that meet certain criteria, making the court process significantly shorter and simpler. For residents of Brevard County, this process falls under the jurisdiction of the 18th Judicial Circuit Court.



An estate in Brevard County generally qualifies for Summary Administration if EITHER of these conditions is met:


  1. The total value of the estate's assets subject to probate administration in Florida is $75,000 or less. (This calculation excludes the value of exempt property, such as the decedent's protected homestead property in Brevard County).
  2. OR, the decedent (the person who passed away) has been deceased for more than two years.


A key feature of Summary Administration is that the court does not appoint a Personal Representative (Executor). Instead, upon approving the petition, the Brevard County court issues an order directly distributing the assets to the rightful beneficiaries or heirs.

Benefits of Summary Administration for Brevard County Families

Choosing Summary Administration when an estate qualifies offers significant advantages to families in Brevard County:

  • Speed: This is the primary benefit. Summary Administration cases in Brevard County are often concluded within just a few months (sometimes as little as 1-3 months), compared to the six months to a year (or longer) typical for Formal Administration.
  • Cost Savings: Fewer court filings, no Personal Representative fees (in most cases), and generally less attorney time result in lower overall administrative costs for Brevard County estates.
  • Simplicity: The process involves fewer procedural steps, making it less complex for families to navigate with proper legal guidance.
  • Reduced Stress: A faster, simpler resolution minimizes the emotional and administrative burden on grieving families in Brevard County.

Could the Estate Qualify? Determining Eligibility in Brevard County

While the basic criteria ($75k limit OR deceased > 2 years) seem straightforward, accurately determining eligibility requires careful assessment:

Accurate Asset Valuation:


All assets subject to probate must be identified and valued correctly. Assets that pass outside of probate (like jointly owned accounts with survivorship rights, life insurance payable to a named beneficiary, or assets held in a trust) are not included in the $75,000 calculation.

Homestead Consideration:


If the decedent owned homestead property in Brevard County, it doesn't count toward the $75,000 limit. However, a separate "Petition to Determine Homestead Status" must typically be filed alongside the Summary Administration petition to ensure clear title passes to the heirs.

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Creditor Status:


  • If death occurred more than two years ago, creditor claims against the estate are generally barred under Florida law, simplifying the process significantly.
  • If death occurred less than two years ago, the petitioner must make a diligent search for known or reasonably ascertainable creditors. Provisions for paying valid debts must be made within the Summary Administration plan, or creditors must consent.

Sibley Law & Associates helps Brevard County families accurately assess estate assets and liabilities to confirm eligibility for Summary Administration.

The Summary Administration Process in Brevard County: Step-by-Step Guidance

Even this simplified process requires precise legal steps managed within the Brevard County court system. Sibley Law & Associates expertly handles each stage:



  1. Eligibility Verification: Confirming the Brevard County estate meets the statutory requirements for Summary Administration.
  2. Petition Preparation: Drafting the detailed "Petition for Summary Administration." This crucial document includes information about the decedent, the petitioner, all beneficiaries/heirs, a complete list of probate assets and their values, statements regarding creditors, and the proposed plan for asset distribution.
  3. Supporting Documentation: Gathering the original Will (if one exists), a certified death certificate, and any necessary consents or waivers from beneficiaries.
  4. Court Filing: Filing the Petition and all supporting documents with the Brevard County Clerk of the Circuit Court.
  5. Notice Requirements: Ensuring all beneficiaries and known creditors (if applicable) receive proper legal notice of the petition.
  6. Homestead Petition (if applicable): Preparing and filing the Petition to Determine Homestead Status for any relevant Brevard County real estate.
  7. Obtaining the Court Order: Presenting the case to the Brevard County probate judge and seeking the "Order of Summary Administration." This order legally transfers the assets to the designated beneficiaries, finalizing the process.

How Sibley Law & Associates Ensures a Smooth Summary Administration

Our focus is on making this process seamless for qualifying Brevard County estates:

  • Accuracy is Key: We meticulously prepare all documentation, ensuring compliance with Florida law and local Brevard County court rules to avoid rejection or delays.
  • Proactive Management: We manage the filing and notice process efficiently to keep the case moving forward.
  • Clear Communication: We keep the petitioner and interested parties informed about the status and next steps.
  • Problem Prevention: Our experience allows us to anticipate potential minor issues (e.g., locating beneficiaries, clarifying asset details) and address them proactively.

Planning For Life...Building For Legacy: Swiftly Honoring Intentions

The firm's principle, "Planning For Life...Building For Legacy," underscores the importance of settling estates efficiently. When a Brevard County estate qualifies for Summary Administration, it provides the fastest legal route to honor the decedent’s wishes (or follow Florida law) and transfer their legacy to the intended recipients. Our role is to facilitate this swift and accurate transfer, respecting the planning done during life. Attorney Dee Sibley's deep estate planning background provides the context to ensure this expedited process aligns perfectly with preserving the intended legacy for Brevard County families.


Why Choose Sibley Law for Summary Administration in Brevard County?

  • Specific Summary Administration Expertise: We routinely handle Summary Administration cases and understand the specific requirements for success in Brevard County.
  • In-Depth Knowledge of Brevard County Probate: We are highly familiar with the procedures and expectations of the 18th Judicial Circuit Court's probate division.
  • Efficiency-Focused: We are committed to leveraging the benefits of Summary Administration for eligible Brevard County estates, saving clients time and stress.
  • Meticulous Accuracy: We ensure every detail in the petition and supporting documents is correct to prevent delays.
  • Guided by Top Estate Counsel: Attorney Dee Sibley's oversight ensures even simplified probate matters receive expert attention.

Explore the Fastest Probate Option for Your Brevard County Estate

If you believe a loved one's estate in Brevard County might qualify for Summary Administration (assets under $75k OR deceased over two years), contact Sibley Law & Associates, PLLC. Let us help you navigate this streamlined process efficiently and correctly.


Book Your Summary Administration Consultation Today!

Find out if this expedited probate path is right for your Brevard County situation.

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