Experienced Treasure Coast Estate And Wills Lawyer

Even a small misstep in its execution could render your final will useless, but the attorney at Erin Kirkwood Law, PLLC, can help prevent this worst-case scenario.

Attorney Erin Kirkwood serves Florida residents in the Treasure Coast region, offering more than 25 years of estate planning experience. Even more, she understands the unique challenges that can arise when creating a will and can help you overcome them. Call for a free consultation.

What Is A Will?

It is a document outlining the distribution of property and assets upon your death. You can make specific bequests in your will for each beneficiary. It also allows you to appoint guardians for minor children and designate an executor to manage your estate.

Legal Requirements For A Florida Will

For a valid will, you must meet the following requirements:

• Age and capacity: You must be at least 18 years old or an emancipated minor and of sound mind.
• Written document: The will must be in writing, as handwritten wills (holographic wills) without witnesses are not recognized in Florida.
• Witnesses: You must sign the will in the presence of two witnesses, who must also sign the document in your and each other’s presence.

Dying without a will means the state will decide how to distribute your assets and who will care for your young children.

Types Of Florida Wills

Did you know you can create more than one will? Not many people understand the many different will options they have to choose from, including:

• Simple will: Outlines basic asset distribution and appoints an executor
• Pour-over will: Transfers any unaddressed assets into a trust upon death
• Mirror image will: Creates identical wills for couples, facilitating aligned estate plans
• Testamentary trust will: Establishes a trust upon death to manage assets for beneficiaries

Many choose to implement both a basic will and one or more other will documents for gapless asset and beneficiary protection.

Guidance Is A Call Away

Erin Kirkwood Law, PLLC, proudly serves families in Stuart, Orlando and the Treasure Coast area. Call attorney Kirkwood at 772-732-8863 or contact him online to schedule a free 30-minute consultation and explore your Florida will options.