Sanford Wills and Trusts Attorney

While estate planning can be challenging to think about, having a will or trust in place is essential for planning your family’s future. These vital legal arrangements will be instrumental in passing along your assets to the next generation. However, estate planning laws can be complex, and drafting these arrangements to protect your family’s rights and interests can be a tall task without the help of an experienced Sanford wills and trusts attorney. 

At Fighter Law, our experienced attorneys are equipped with the knowledge and skills to guide you through the estate planning process with ease. Our board-certified wills and trusts lawyers in Sanford have the experience and skills to evaluate your assets and ensure each finds its way to the intended parties. When you trust us with your estate planning needs, you can have peace of mind that your financial future is in the caring hands of a seasoned legal professional. 

The Importance of Having a Will in Florida

A will is typically the most simple and well-known way to have a say in what happens to your property after you pass away. This legal document names your beneficiaries as well as how your assets should be distributed among them. Additionally, a will can designate the guardian of any minor children if both parents lose their lives. Several requirements must be met for a will to be valid under Florida law. These requirements include the following:

  • The person creating the will, known as the testator, must be at least 18 years of age
  • The will must be written as a legal document (it cannot be an oral agreement)
  • The testator must be of sound mind when you sign your will
  • The testator must sign the will in the presence of two competent witnesses
  • The witnesses and an official notary must also sign the will

In Florida, wills do not become final until the testator dies. Until then, it may be redrafted or added to with the help of an experienced wills and trusts attorney. It is also essential to note that a will does not go into effect until it goes through probate court and a judge declares it valid. 

Do I Need to Establish a Trust?

A trust is another document you can establish to help your loved ones avoid probate after your passing. Since a trust is a separate entity, your assets will immediately pass to it upon your death, making probate unnecessary. This can save your family time and legal fees, as well as protect your assets from creditors. 

There are two common types of living trusts. Revocable trusts can be changed or revoked while you are alive, while irrevocable trusts are final from the moment it is established. While an irrevocable trust can be beneficial to achieve certain financial goals, many Floridians opt for a revocable living trust when planning for their family’s future. A trust is an intricate arrangement that can do more to protect your family than a simple will. Trusts have many benefits beyond avoiding the probate process, including the following:

  • Establishing protections for disabled beneficiaries
  • Helping manage federal estate taxes
  • Protecting children born from a first marriage
  • Protecting your beneficiaries from creditor attacks
  • Offering more privacy in your affairs
  • Allowing for tax benefits
  • Providing funds in the event of illness, not only death

A dedicated wills and trusts attorney can review your unique needs and help you determine if a living trust is the best option for you and your family. 

How Can a Sanford Wills & Trusts Attorney Help Me?

Estate planning can be legally dense and require extensive documentation. Having an experienced wills and trusts lawyer on your side throughout this process can save you time and ensure your wishes are respected after your death. A few of the many ways our Sanford wills and trusts lawyers at Fighter Law can help you include the following:

  • Drafting and establishing your will and trust
  • Creating a plan tailored to your individual needs
  • Ensuring your will and trust are legally sound
  • Answering your questions about the estate planning and probate process
  • Updating your will or revocable trust when needed
  • Helping you avoid the probate process and estate taxes

Our attorneys will work with you to devise an estate plan that respects your wishes and protects your family’s interests. 

Speak to a Dedicated Wills & Trust Attorney at Fighter Law

The knowledgeable attorneys at Fighter Law understand the ins and outs of Florida’s estate planning laws and are ready to help you draft and establish your will or trust. We are dedicated to taking an individualized and detailed approach to every estate plan to ensure your family’s future is protected. To learn more about how we can help you and schedule a free consultation, call us today at (407) 344-4837 or complete our online contact form.