ESTATE PLANNING SERVICES

A written document created by you to manage your assets during your lifetime and distribute the remaining assets after your death. A revocable trust can avoid probate by effecting the transfer of your assets during your lifetime to your trustee. This avoids the need to use the probate process to make the transfer after your death. The trustee has immediate authority to manage the trust assets at your death; appointment by the court is not necessary.

A written document controlling the disposition of your property at death. Through a will, you decide who gets your property instead of the law making the choice for you.

A written document naming another person to act on your behalf. This is usually used to give someone the right to do a variety of financial activities and almost any legal act that, you, the maker of the power of attorney could do such as accessing bank accounts, handling financial transactions, and selling your car, home or other property. A Durable Power of Attorney can only be used while you are alive.

A written document naming another person as your representative to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to them yourself.

A written document that directs the providing, withholding, or withdrawal of life-prolonging medical procedures, including but not limited to nutrition and hydration, if you are unable to make your own decisions and you have an end stage condition, terminal illness, or are in a persistent vegetative state.

Florida law allows you to designate a person who could be appointed guardian over you should you become incapacitated and/or over your children should you become incapacitated or upon your death. If you fail to designate a guardian, the court will do so for you if it becomes necessary.