Probate in Florida typically takes different amounts of time depending on the type and complexity of the estate:
- Formal Administration (most common): Takes a minimum of six months but generally about 18 months. Complex or litigated estates can extend this timeline by a year or more.
- Summary Administration : A faster process for estates valued under $75,000 with no debt. It usually takes one to three months.
- Disposition Without Administration : For very small estates worth less than the final expenses, this process only requires filing a form and often takes just a few weeks.
Florida law requires the will to be filed with the probate court within 10 days of death, which begins the probate process. After that, the timeline varies based on estate complexity, court schedules, creditor claims, and potential disputes among heirs. In general, simple estates may complete probate in three months, standard estates take up to one year, and complex/litigated estates can take two or more years. Overall, the average probate duration in Florida ranges from several months to over a year, with the most common process taking about 18 months.
