Are there simplified probate proceedings?
Yes, if the probate assets are less than $30,000 in value ($50,000 if passing to a surviving spouse), the estate may qualify for statutory “small estate” proceedings which are often closed within two months. In a small estate proceeding no Inventory is required to be filed and no Administration Accounts need to be approved by the Orphans’ Court. There is also a streamlined procedure called “modified estate administration” which allows an estate to be closed within ten months of the appointment of a Personal Representative and requires no Orphans’ Court involvement. Not all estates qualify for small estate proceedings or for modified estate administration and this may be discussed with the Register of Wills’ office.
