So you and your family are living in Bradenton, Florida. The sun is shining and life seems like it will never end. Unfortunately, it eventually will. But let’s not get too dark here! A loss of life doesn’t have to be something to be fearful of. If you want what’s best for your family after your death, then hiring an estate planning attorney should be the first thing that you do. So stop what you’re doing and call an estate planning attorney right now! But in all seriousness, if you have assets that you want to be left in the right hands, then getting together with an estate planning attorney, even when you are alive and well is a very important decision.
So what exactly is an estate planning attorney?
An estate planning attorney is someone who will handle all the legal issues that come after death. Death is an unfortunate thing, but planning while you’re still alive is a must-do if you want to ensure that the right people handle your estate. An estate can be anything from your house, your assets, and so on. There are even legal issues regarding how you as a person will be handled medically if you become ill and cannot speak for yourself.
So do I really need an estate planning attorney?
Estate planning may seem like an easy thing to do but when it comes to state laws such as in Bradenton, Florida, things can be a little tricky. State laws govern what is allowed and not in a will, trust or financial power of attorney. These laws also specify who can witness the documents and what formalities must be followed when they are signed. Most of the time, it is up to the state to decide who can serve as a trustee, personal representative, health care surrogate, or attorney-in-fact.
A Florida personal representative must be either related to you through blood, marriage or be qualified under state law. A state resident must also be present at the time you die.
Many people try to place representatives in the absence of this law. These non-residents or non-relatives cannot serve in Florida.
It is important to work with an estate planning attorney who is qualified. This will help you avoid making costly mistakes like these.
Don’t wait until it’s too late, hire a Bradenton estate planning attorney today!
Paul Grivas is an estate planning attorney in Bradenton Flordia. Contact him for estate planning, probate, and intellectual & real property law needs. Protect what’s yours, and call today!
