A Fort Lauderdale estate planning attorney can ensure your wishes are legally recognized and followed after your death. They can also help you structure your inheritance, avoiding taxes and legal issues. They can prepare trusts for your circumstances like living trusts (revocable or charitable) and family trusts, minimizing estate taxes and avoid probate. They can also prepare a power of attorney for you to handle your finances and health care decisions if you become incapacitated.
Whether you have minor children, adult children who are poor money managers, or a shaky second marriage, spelling out your wishes in a will is essential to prevent lawsuits and family squabbling. An experienced Broward County Wills & Trusts Attorney can assist you in creating a plan that protects your assets and your family.
An effective estate plan includes a Last Will and Testament, a Durable Power of Attorney for Property, an Advanced Medical Directive, and a Health Care Surrogate. It should be reviewed and revised as your needs change. A lawyer can draft these documents for you or assist you in preparing them on your own.
If you have a Lady Bird Deed or an Enhanced Life Estate Deed you may be able to avoid probate. This document allows an elder person to retain a lifetime interest in their home while the title passes to the remainder beneficiaries upon death. The benefit is that the house is not part of the estate and does not pass through probate.
When a loved one becomes incapacitated, it is important to have a strong guardianship to provide for their care and well-being. This process begins with a Petition to Determine Incapacity and a hearing where the Court evaluates the alleged incapacity. If the Court finds the alleged incapacitated person lacks sufficient capacity to manage their affairs, it can appoint a guardian.
A good Wills & Trusts Attorney in Broward County Florida will be knowledgeable about the complexities of Florida law and the unique situations that may arise for their clients. They will take the time to understand their client’s needs and desires. They will then draft and review the appropriate estate planning documents to meet those objectives.
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Located in South Florida, Broward County is known for its beaches and upscale neighborhoods. It has a high quality of life with many restaurants, coffee shops and parks. It is a popular destination for retirees and families looking for a sunny climate. The economy is primarily a services industry. It is home to the Broward Mall and is served by the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.