Planning your estate is one of the most responsible steps you can take to secure your family’s future. Whether you’re looking to draft a will, set up a trust, or grant a power of attorney, having an experienced estate planning attorney near you in Florida makes all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explain why estate planning is essential, how to choose the right attorney, and why regular reviews of your plan are just as important as creating one.
Why You Need an Estate Planning Attorney in Florida
Florida’s laws around wills, trusts, probate, and guardianship are unique. Working with a local attorney who understands the specific legal landscape ensures that your documents are compliant and effective.
A good estate planning attorney helps you:
- Draft or revise a valid will
- Set up living and irrevocable trusts
- Designate a healthcare surrogate and durable power of attorney
- Ensure smooth property transfer to loved ones
- Avoid probate in Florida, saving time and money for your family
Avoid Probate in Florida with Proper Planning
Probate can be a lengthy and costly process. Fortunately, many of our clients ask early on: “How can I avoid probate in Florida?”
The answer often lies in smart estate planning. Common tools include:
- Revocable living trusts
- Joint ownership of assets
- Payable-on-death (POD) designations
- Beneficiary designations for life insurance and retirement accounts
Avoiding probate isn’t just about saving money—it’s also about maintaining your family’s privacy and reducing stress during an already emotional time.
Should I Review My Will?
Absolutely. One of the most common mistakes people make is assuming their estate plan is “set and forget.” Life changes, and so should your plan.
We recommend reviewing your will and estate documents:
- After marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child
- After purchasing property or making a large investment
- After moving to Florida or acquiring Florida-based assets
- Every 3–5 years, even without major life events
If you’re asking, “Should I review my will?” — the answer is likely yes. Lumsden Law offers estate plan reviews to ensure your documents still meet your needs and comply with Florida law.
The Importance of a Power of Attorney
A power of attorney (POA) allows someone you trust to act on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. In Florida, there are several types:
- Durable POA – Remains in effect if you become incapacitated
- Limited or Specific POA – Grants authority for a specific task
- Medical POA (or healthcare surrogate) – Makes healthcare decisions when you can’t
Setting up a POA now ensures that your finances and well-being are handled according to your wishes—by someone you trust.
How Lumsden Law Can Help
Located in Windermere and serving all of Central Florida, Lumsden Law specializes in:
- Wills and trusts
- Probate and estate administration
- Guardianship and elder law
- Asset protection strategies
- Durable powers of attorney and health directives
If you’re searching for an experienced estate planning attorney near me in Florida, our team is here to provide trusted legal guidance every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What documents should I include in my estate plan?
A complete plan includes a will, trust (if applicable), durable power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive.
2. How often should I review my will?
We recommend every 3–5 years or after any major life event.
3. What’s the best way to avoid probate in Florida?
Using tools like revocable trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint asset ownership can help you avoid probate.
4. Can Lumsden Law help with power of attorney documents?
Yes, we create legally sound POA documents that align with your specific wishes and Florida law.
Final Thought:
Estate planning is not just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants peace of mind. Secure your legacy, avoid probate hassles, and ensure your loved ones are protected. Contact Lumsden Law today to start your personalized estate plan.
