What It Means
Everyone should have a carefully written Will disposing of their property as they wish at the time of their death. Your Will should name an executor/personal representative who will handle the distribution of property and the payment of any debts. in Florida, that person must be a resident of Florida at the time the Will is to be admitted to Probate, unless he or she is a blood relative. In addition, he or she can not have been convicted of a felony.
Living Wills, Power of Attorney
It makes good sense to prepare a Living Will, giving your personal instructions about the circumstances under which you want to be kept alive using extraordinary means after a severe accident or illness. Many people also prepare a Medical Power of Attorney, which gives the authority for medical decisions to a person you designate if you are incapacitated. Others prepare a General Power of Attorney, to empower another person to handle everyday affairs for you.
Revocable Living Trust
In many situations, in order to avoid the need for probate (especially if you own property in two or more states), your major assets can be transferred into a revocable living trust. I will discuss with you in detail the benefits and costs of such Trust.
What To Do
Contact this office. You should always hire a lawyer to prepare these documents so every provision is properly handled. This helps avoid unpleasant and complicated Will Contests after a person’s death.
Our Fees
We normally handle these documents for a flat fee, unless they are especially complicated. Will Contests are either handled on a contingency fee basis, or an hourly rate with a retainer up front. Other attorneys assist us in the recording of any Deeds for transfer of real estate.