Land O’Lakes Wills Lawyer
Despite the fact that a will is one of the most basic, fundamental components of a Florida estate plan, statistics suggest that many people have not yet taken the first steps toward creating one. In a survey conducted by Caring.com, 2 out of 3 respondents admitted that they did not have a will, despite almost 60 percent reporting that preparing one is very important. Survey participants revealed a litany of reasons for not moving forward, and you may even share their views about creating a will.
At The Law Office of Laurie R. Chane, our team is prepared to explain the benefits of wills and dispel any reasons you might have for not creating one. Please contact our firm to schedule a consultation with a Land O’Lakes wills lawyer who can review your objectives and assist with developing an arrangement that achieves them. You might also find it useful to check out some background information on wills and our legal services.
How Your Will Supports Your Legacy
If you die intestate, Florida probate laws will step in and essentially take the place of your will. The statutes on intestate succession direct that your assets must be distributed to your heirs, which could run contrary to your wishes. The laws also designate who can act as your personal representative to handle estate administration, so you do not choose who will manage your final affairs.
When you execute a will, you avoid these issues and many others. Through your will:
- You name an executor who will carry out the terms and distributions to beneficiaries.
- You can designate beneficiaries who will receive specific items and general bequests.
- If you have minor children, you may include your preference on who should be guardian.
- You can make transfers to trusts you previously created, such as through a pour over will.
- It is possible to create a testamentary trust that takes effect upon your passing.
- You may waive the requirement that your personal representative purchase a surety bond.
Advice from a Skilled Land O’Lakes Wills Lawyer
No online program or software can fully take the place of the experience and knowledge of an attorney, as a “check the box” approach cannot account for your unique, personal circumstances. You can rely on The Law Office of Laurie R. Chane for assistance with all essential tasks, including:
- Counseling you on the structure and key terms;
- Advising you on your choice of executor and successor executor;
- Drafting your will in accordance with your intentions;
- Signing, witnessing, and notarization as required by law; and
- Conducting periodic reviews and updates through a will codicil.
Speak to a Land O’Lakes Wills Lawyer About Your Options
This description of the legal concepts may be helpful, but you can also see that retaining skilled legal counsel is critical when creating your will. For more information, please contact The Law Office of Laurie R. Chane. You can call 352-567-0055 or visit our website to set up a consultation with an experienced Pasco County wills attorney.
