A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes for how your property and assets should be distributed after your death. It allows you to name an executor to manage your estate and can appoint a guardian for minor children. A trust, on the other hand, is a legal arrangement where a trustee holds assets for the benefit of another person, called a beneficiary. Trusts can be used to manage assets during your lifetime and after your death, potentially avoiding the probate process and offering more control and privacy than a will. Our firm can help you determine the best approach for your specific needs, whether it's a simple will, a comprehensive trust, or a combination of both, to ensure your legacy is protected and your loved ones are provided for.
A living will, also known as an advance directive, is a legal document that specifies your wishes regarding medical treatments and end-of-life care. Unlike a traditional will, it does not distribute assets after death. Instead, it guides healthcare professionals and your family in making decisions about your care if you become incapacitated and unable to communicate. A living will can address critical choices such as the use of life-prolonging procedures, mechanical ventilation, and artificial nutrition. By creating a living will, you can ensure your preferences are honored and reduce the burden of difficult decisions on your loved ones.
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that gives one person the authority to act on behalf of another person in specific matters, such as financial or medical decisions. This document can be a crucial part of an estate plan, ensuring that your wishes are carried out even if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. We can help you draft and execute a power of attorney that is tailored to your unique needs, providing you with peace of mind and protecting your interests.
A “lady bird deed,” also known as an enhanced life estate deed, is an effective way to transfer real property to someone else outside of probate while retaining a life estate in the property. This type of deed got its nickname when President Lyndon B. Johnson used it to convey real estate to his wife, Lady Bird Johnson. The good news is that Florida is one of the few states that legally recognizes this type of deed.