A Last Will and Testament is a cornerstone of any estate plan, ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. In Florida, without a valid will, state intestacy laws determine who inherits your property, which may not reflect your intentions. Our team helps you create a personalized, legally sound will to protect your loved ones and your legacy.
A will gives you control over how your estate is handled after your passing. It allows you to:
Decide who inherits your property, money, and personal belongings.
Choose someone you trust to manage your estate and carry out your wishes.
Protect minor children by officially naming a legal guardian.
Support causes important to you through legacy gifts.
Clarify your intentions to minimize conflict among heirs.
Without a will, Florida intestacy laws determine who inherits your estate, prioritizing spouses, children, and other close relatives, often without regard to personal relationships.
To be legally valid in Florida, a will must meet specific requirements under Florida Statutes § 732.502:
The will must be in writing (oral wills are generally not recognized).
The testator (person creating the will) must sign the document.
At least two adult witnesses must sign the will in the presence of the testator.
The testator must be of sound mind and at least 18 years old.
Florida does not recognize holographic wills (handwritten, unwitnessed wills), even if valid in another state.
While a will directs asset distribution, it does not bypass probate in Florida. The probate process ensures the will’s validity, settles debts, and facilitates asset transfer. Florida has two types of probate:
To avoid probate entirely, consider revocable living trusts and other estate planning tools.
Regularly updating your will ensures it reflects your current wishes and life circumstances. In Florida, consider updating your will if you:
Marry, divorce, or experience the death of a spouse.
Have children or grandchildren.
Acquire or sell significant assets
Relocate to Florida from another state.
Experience changes in your health or financial situation.
Florida law automatically revokes certain provisions of your will after divorce unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Creating a will ensures your loved ones are cared for and your wishes are honored. Our experienced team provides personalized guidance, ensuring your will meets all Florida legal requirements while reflecting your unique circumstances.
Don’t leave your estate to chance—contact us today to create or update your will and secure your legacy with confidence.
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5335 Wisconsin Ave NW #440, Washington, DC 20015