Need Help Creating a Will in Jacksonville, FL?

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Every year, countless people pass away without a will—which is also known as dying “intestate.” This can happen for a number of different reasons. Some people are young and can’t envision a day when they will no longer be with their family and loved ones. Others aren’t wealthy, so they don’t think it matters. But perhaps the biggest reasons that most people haven’t prepared a will is because they simply haven’t gotten around to it.

The reality is that dying without a properly drafted will almost always causes unnecessary hardship for your survivors as they try to speculate about what you would have wanted. When you come to Owenby Law, P.A. for help with all of your estate planning needs, we can make the preparation of your will a relatively easy process. Then, you can move forward with peace of mind. Contact our Jacksonville estate planning lawyers today.

What is a Last Will and Testament?

In Florida, the terms "will" and "testament" are synonymous. A will is a document that appoints a person to read, interpret, and execute the final wishes of the preparer with regard to property and other matters. A will can be simple or very complex. However, in order for a will to be valid under Florida law, it must meet certain conditions. The testator’s wishes must be stated in writing, the will must bear the testator’s signature, and the testator’s name must be subscribed at the end of the will by some other person in the testator’s presence and by the testator’s direction.

Creating a will is a key aspect of estate planning, offering the following benefits:

• Distribution of Assets: A will allows you to specify how your assets and property should be distributed among your beneficiaries after your death. Without a will, the distribution of your assets will be determined by state laws, which may not align with your wishes.
• Guardianship for Minor Children: For parents with minor children, a will enables you to designate a guardian for your children in the event of your death. This ensures that someone you trust will be responsible for their care and upbringing.
• Executor Appointment: You can nominate an executor in your will to manage the distribution of your assets and handle the administrative tasks of your estate, such as paying off debts and taxes. This ensures that your affairs are managed by someone you trust.
• Minimize Family Disputes: A clear and legally binding will can help minimize potential conflicts among family members regarding the distribution of your assets. By clearly outlining your wishes, you reduce the likelihood of disputes and legal challenges.
• Tax Planning: A well-crafted will can also help minimize estate taxes and other taxes that may be incurred upon your death. Estate planning strategies can be employed within your will to reduce the tax burden on your beneficiaries.
• Peace of Mind: Creating a will provides peace of mind, knowing that your assets will be distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones will be taken care of after your passing. It offers reassurance that your legacy will be managed in the manner you desire.
• Protecting Unmarried Partners and Charitable Contributions: If you're in a long-term relationship but not married, a will can ensure that your partner is provided for after your death. Additionally, you can use your will to leave assets to charitable organizations or causes that are important to you.
• Avoiding Intestacy Laws: Without a will, your estate will be subject to intestacy laws, which may distribute your assets in a way that doesn't reflect your preferences. Creating a will allows you to maintain control over the distribution of your estate.

When you meet with a Jacksonville estate planning lawyer at Owenby Law, P.A., we will find out what you want to accomplish and how you want your estate to be distributed. Then we will make recommendations to ensure that you walk away with the peace of mind of knowing that your affairs are in order. When you come to our firm for help with your elder law needs, you can rest easier knowing that we are taking care of the details.