[GRAPHIC: Law Office of Warren B. Brams, P.A., 561-478-4848, www.FamilyLawWestPalmBeach.com, 2161 Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard | Suite 201, West Palm Beach, FL 33409]
WARREN B. BRAMS: Probate is a process where a decedent's assets are transferred to his or her beneficiaries through a court proceeding. Summary administration is an abbreviated probate proceeding. And it's typically appropriate for smaller estates or estates that are not indebted. The first step in the process is the appointment of a personal representative, who is often called an executor in other states. The second step of the process is where the personal representative collects the assets of the estate and notifies creditors of the opportunity to file a claim against the estate. And the third and final step, the personal representative resolves any outstanding claims, pays any taxes which may be due, and distributes the remainder of the estate to the beneficiaries. The probate process can take longer if there are claims issues which must be resolved, if there are disputes between beneficiaries, or sometimes if there are issues concerning the payment of taxes.
[GRAPHIC: Law Office of Warren B. Brams, P.A., 561-478-4848, www.FamilyLawWestPalmBeach.com, 2161 Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard | Suite 201, West Palm Beach, FL 33409]