What is the difference between a formal probate proceeding and a summary proceeding?

A formal probate proceeding is supervised by the Court and generally applies to estates with a date-of-death value exceeding $150,000.00.

Where the total value of the estate does not exceed $150,000.00, California law (Probate Code §7660) authorizes the Public Administrator to administer the estate with limited or no court supervision. Summary proceedings are only authorized for the Public Administrator and the law provides for a minimum fee ($1,000.00). A summary probate proceeding is considerably more economical and efficient than a formal probate proceeding.

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1. What is involved in the probate of an estate, and why does it take so long?
2. Why does the Public Administrator administer estates?
3. When is the estate handled by the Public Administrator?
4. How much are the fees of the Public Administrator?
5. What is the difference between a formal probate proceeding and a summary proceeding?
6. Does the Public Administrator make a thorough investigation to discover all estate assets?
7. Will the Public Administrator make funeral arrangements?
8. Can I put in a claim for my expenses?
9. When will claims be paid?
10. What inheritance taxes or estate taxes will the estate have to pay?
11. Can you give me the exact financial status of the estate?
12. Will I receive regular reports on the progress of the estate?
13. How long does it take to administer an estate?
14. Why is estate property sold?
15. When will the estate be distributed?
16. Will I receive a statement of all receipts and disbursements?