Palm Harbor & St. Petersburg Wills and Estate Planning Attorney

Creating a will is one of the most meaningful steps you can take to protect your family’s future. With a valid will, you decide how your property is distributed, who will care for your children, and how your legacy will be preserved. Without one, Florida’s intestacy laws take over, often leading to results that don’t reflect your wishes or your family’s needs. A well-crafted will not only brings clarity but also reduces conflict and eases the burden on your loved ones.

At Verras Law, we guide families in Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, and throughout Pinellas County through every stage of the estate planning process.

What Is a Will?

A will, formally called a last will and testament, is a legal document that sets out your instructions for what should happen to your property when you pass away. A will can cover:

Distribution of assets such as real estate, bank accounts, or personal belongings
Guardianship for minor children
Appointment of a personal representative (executor) to carry out your instructions

Having a valid will ensures that your wishes are honored and that your family has clear guidance at a difficult time.

Benefits of Creating a Will in Florida

When you create a will in Florida, you protect your family’s future and give yourself the comfort of knowing your plans are in place. For families in Palm Harbor and St. Petersburg, the advantages include:

Control Over Asset Distribution

A will allows you to decide who inherits your property. Without one, the state follows a formula that may not align with your goals. With a will, you can leave specific gifts to family, friends, or charities.

Appointment of a Personal Representative

Florida law allows you to name a personal representative in your will. This person manages your estate, pays debts, and distributes assets. Choosing someone you trust gives you confidence that your affairs will be handled responsibly.

Guardian for Minor Children

Parents can use a will to name a guardian for their children. This ensures your children are raised by someone you choose, rather than leaving the decision up to the court.

Tax Planning Opportunities

With proper planning, a will can help minimize tax burdens on your estate. By structuring gifts strategically, you can reduce potential estate or income taxes, leaving more for your beneficiaries.

Testamentary Trusts

A will can include provisions for a testamentary trust, which is created after your death. These trusts can:

Protect inheritances for children or loved ones not ready to manage money
Provide for a family member with special needs without affecting benefits
Spread out distributions over time to encourage responsible financial use

Living Will vs. Last Will and Testament

It’s important to understand the difference between a living will and a last will and testament:

Last Will and Testament: Addresses what happens after death, including property distribution, guardianship of children, and naming a personal representative.
Living Will: Sometimes called an advance directive, this document outlines your wishes for medical care if you cannot speak for yourself due to illness or incapacity.

Both documents serve different purposes, and many Floridians benefit from having both in place as part of a complete estate plan.

What Happens in Florida If You Die Without a Will

Dying without a will is called intestacy. In this situation, Florida’s intestacy laws decide who inherits your property. Common outcomes include:

If you are married with children from a prior relationship, your spouse and children may share your estate.
If you have no immediate relatives, your property could eventually pass to distant family or even to the state.
If you have minor children, the court will choose a guardian without knowing your preferences.

This process often leads to disputes and delays. A valid will helps avoid these complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a will need to be updated?

Yes. Life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or significant financial changes should prompt a review of your will. Updating your estate plan keeps it aligned with your current wishes.

Do I need a lawyer to create a will in Florida?

While you can attempt to write your own will, Florida has strict requirements for validity. An attorney ensures your will complies with state law and avoids mistakes that could cause disputes later. At Verras Law, we will guide you through the process and help create a will that stands up in court.

Contact an Experienced Palm Harbor & St. Petersburg Estate Planning Attorney

Estate planning is about creating stability for the people you care about most. A well-crafted will ensures your family has guidance, your children are protected, and your wishes are respected. At Verras Law, we work with clients in Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, and nearby communities to prepare wills and estate plans that reflect their goals.