Quick answer: Florida has a presumed-reasonable attorney fee schedule under Fla. Stat. § 733.6171 — about $15,000 on a $500,000 estate. But, unlike California, the statute expressly says the fee is not mandatory and is negotiable, so most routine estates are handled on a flat fee of $3,000–$5,000.
The statutory schedule (§ 733.6171(3))
| Compensable estate value | Presumed-reasonable fee |
|---|---|
| $40,000 or less | $1,500 |
| $40,000 – $70,000 | +$750 ($2,250) |
| $70,000 – $100,000 | +$750 ($3,000) |
| $100,000 – $1,000,000 | +3% of the next $900,000 |
| $1,000,000 – $3,000,000 | +2.5% |
| $3,000,000 – $5,000,000 | +2% |
| above $5,000,000 | 1.5% / 1% |
So a $500,000 estate is $3,000 + 3% of $400,000 = $15,000 under the schedule. Extraordinary services (litigation, sales, tax returns) can be billed on top.
The key point: it's negotiable
Do you need an attorney?
In formal administration, Florida generally requires the PR to be represented by an attorney — unless the PR is the sole interested person. Summary administration and disposition without administration can sometimes be handled without one.
How to pay less in Florida
- Ask for a flat fee up front — standard for routine estates ($3,000–$5,000).
- Qualify for summary administration ($150,000 or less since July 1, 2026).
- Keep assets out of probate with a living trust or Lady Bird deed.
Attorney fees are only part of the picture. See the full cost in the Florida probate cost breakdown, or estimate your total with the Florida probate cost calculator.