Planning for your future is one of the most significant steps you can take to protect your assets and provide for your loved ones. You may feel uncertain about where to begin, especially with legal tools such as trusts, Wills, probate, power of attorney, and business succession.
An experienced estate planning lawyer can provide clarity and direction for people in Pinecrest, helping you handle these important decisions with confidence. Our firm believes that proactive planning is key, and our dedicated attorney is here to guide you through the process.
Creating a Will is a fundamental part of any estate plan. For a Will to be valid in Florida, it must meet specific requirements, including being in writing and signed by you in the presence of two witnesses, as outlined in Florida Statutes § 732.502.
While a Will is essential, it does not avoid probate. A knowledgeable estate planning lawyer can help people in Pinecrest determine if other tools, such as a trust, are a better fit for your needs. Trusts are versatile instruments that can manage your assets during your lifetime and after, often allowing your estate to avoid the probate process entirely and keep your affairs private.
A comprehensive estate plan also prepares for the possibility of incapacitation. A durable power of attorney is a critical document that allows you to appoint a trusted individual, known as your agent, to make financial decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.
Under Florida Statutes Chapter 709, this document grants your agent the authority to manage your finances, pay bills, and handle property transactions. Without a durable power of attorney, your family may need to go to court to have a guardian appointed, a process that can be expensive and emotionally draining.
We can assist you in drafting a power of attorney that clearly defines the powers you wish to grant, ensuring your affairs are managed by someone you choose and trust. A qualified attorney can provide essential guidance on these crucial matters in Pinecrest to complement your estate planning documents.
For business owners, estate planning involves an additional layer of complexity: business succession. A well-crafted succession plan ensures the smooth transition of your company to new ownership or management, preserving its value and legacy. This plan addresses key questions, such as who will take over the company and how to transfer the funds. It also covers what will happen to your stake in the business.
Without a formal plan prepared with the help of an estate planning attorney, your business could face instability, disputes among heirs, or even forced liquidation to pay estate taxes.
Do not leave your legacy to chance. If you live in Pinecrest, let a dedicated estate planning lawyer at Veliz & Associates, P.A. help you create a secure future. From drafting essential documents, such as Wills and trusts, to planning for business succession or the possibility of an estate tax, our firm provides the legal support you need to protect your assets and family. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
We evaluate your case and determine how we might be able to help.
We will meet with you to discuss your next options and lay out a plan.
Our team guides you throughout the process so you feel confident about your choices.
(305) 250-9917