Estate Planning Attorneys
When most people think of retirement, they think of Florida. The Sunshine State has so much to offer, namely the warm weather and tax benefits that come along with calling Florida home. Whether you are retired or simply looking to establish a directive in the event of death, it is important to work with an experienced attorney to secure your peace of mind.
Estate planning entails the drafting of legal documents to reflect your wishes after your death. Each document includes specific directives concerning your property and provisions to be allotted to loved ones. These directives are especially important to have in place in the event of untimely death or incapacitation. Despite sounding very straightforward, estate planning is often a very complex area of law, which is why it is crucial to hire an attorney knowledgeable in the field. At DML Attorneys, P.A., our attorneys are experienced in tax law and know how to develop the appropriate strategy to protect your property.
If you have any questions about planning for your future, contact us today. The attorneys at DML Attorneys, P.A., can help you protect your estate.
“We are here to help resolve the sensitive issues that arise after the loss or exploitation of a loved one.”
Basics of Estate Planning
When meeting with an attorney to discuss directives for your estate, they will want to help you develop a long-term plan for your property and the care of your loved ones after your passing. The following are the three most important legal documents involved in establishing those directives:
Last Will and Testament- Drafting a will is what most people typically think of what they think of estate planning. While there are various types of wills to address different circumstances, in Florida, the most standard is known as a Last Will and Testament. Ultimately, this legal document establishes directions for the allotment of your property (real estate, cash assets, etc.). Depending on your circumstances, your will may address a larger host of matters. For example, if you are the guardian of a minor, a Last Will and Testament also dictates whom will step in the guardian in your absence.
Power of Attorney- In the event you are unable to make important financial decisions regarding your estate, a power of attorney grants someone of your choosing to step in and assume that decision making authority. When appointing an agent to make decisions on your behalf, you can dictate the scope of authority being delegated.
Health Care Directive- A health care directive is important in the event you cannot make your own medical decisions. If you are incapacitated, whether mentally or physically, establishing a health care directive ensures that your last wishes are carried out as you intended. Like a power of attorney, your health care directive will name a health care agent to make medical decisions on your behalf. Additionally, this document will outline your instructions for future medical care, including decisions regarding life-sustaining intervention or treatment.
Making plans for the end of a life is an understandably uncomfortable and emotional process, however the benefits of having an estate plan in place in the event you need it outweigh any of the stress that accompanies the process. With an estate plan in place, you do not have to worry about what will happen to you, your family and assets because you have the authority to dictate those considerations.