Estate Planning Attorney in South Florida

A Will explains how you want your assets to be handled after you pass away and allows you to name guardians for minor children. A Living Trust, on the other hand, allows your assets to be managed and transferred privately and without probate. A Trust can also take effect while you are still living if you become unable to manage your affairs. During your consultation, we explain how each option works in Florida and help you decide which one offers the protection and structure your family needs.

In many situations, yes. Even if you have a Living Trust, most people still need a simple Will to cover any assets that were not transferred into the Trust. This type of Will, often called a pour over Will, acts as a safety net and ensures that anything left outside the Trust is handled according to your wishes. Having both documents gives you a more complete and dependable estate plan.

The right choice depends on your goals, your assets, and your family circumstances. A Will outlines your wishes and names guardians for minor children, while a Living Trust can help your family avoid probate and transfer assets more smoothly and privately. During your consultation, we take the time to understand your situation, explain both options in simple terms, and help you decide which approach best protects your wishes and the people you care about.

A Living Trust is one of the most effective ways to avoid probate in Florida, but it is not the only tool available. Probate can be time consuming and public, which is why many families choose a Trust to simplify the process for their loved ones. Whether a Trust is necessary depends on your goals, your assets, and how they are titled. We discuss your situation in detail so you understand the benefits of a Trust and whether it is the right fit for your estate plan.

A Will only takes effect after you pass away, so it does not protect your assets or guide decisions if you become sick or unable to manage things on your own. In those situations, other documents, such as a Trust or powers of attorney, help ensure your wishes are followed. We explain how each document works together so you have a plan that protects you during your lifetime as well as afterwards.

Most out of state Wills and Trusts remain legally valid in Florida, but they may not follow Florida’s specific requirements or reflect the state’s probate and property laws. This can lead to delays or complications for your family. If you recently moved to South Florida, it is a good idea to have your existing documents reviewed to be sure they still protect your wishes the way you intended. We can walk through your current plan and let you know whether any updates are recommended.

The timeline varies from person to person. Most Wills and Living Trusts can be completed within a reasonable timeframe once we review your information and discuss your goals. Some clients are ready quickly, while others prefer to take time to think through decisions. We move at a pace that feels comfortable for you, while still making the process efficient and organized.

Yes. Many clients prefer a virtual process, and we accommodate that fully. Consultations can be completed by phone or video, and you will receive clear instructions for reviewing, signing, and finalizing your documents. Whether you meet in person or online, you receive the same level of support and guidance.

You do not need to gather everything at once. To begin, basic information is enough: your assets, the people you want to include in your plan, and any guardians or decision makers you want to name. During your consultation, we walk through each detail step by step so you understand what is needed and feel comfortable moving forward.