Miami Estate Planning Attorney

If you were going on vacation, you wouldn't wait until the last minute to start packing your bags. Why should your estate plan be any different?

Whether you've been putting off estate planning because you don't know where to start or you've been busy with work and family, our Miami estate planning attorney is here to help.

We can help you create an estate plan that outlines your wishes for after you're gone so your family won't be left guessing about your estate. Let us walk you through the process step by step. Contact us today.

Four Documents You Should Include in an Estate Plan

Estate planning is as unique as the families that create them. While the process can seem puzzling, our team at Alexander Gil, PLLC, is here to help you find the right pieces to put it all together.

When you work with us, we will help you create a comprehensive estate plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

Your estate plan may include several important documents, such as:

Last will and testament
Trust
Advance directives
Durable Power of Attorney

We focus on working with families to create effective estate plans designed to protect and preserve assets for the benefit of the intended beneficiaries. A comprehensive estate plan will reduce the stress, expense, and time it takes to manage a family member or loved one's death or incapacity.

It is important to us that each client's plan is customized to their unique needs and those of their family. Together, we will work towards creating an estate plan that meets your goals and aligns with specific family dynamics.

Designing and executing your documents is only half of an effective estate plan. It's just as important that your assets are structured to work properly within the plan. We help reorganize property to achieve your legal objectives.

Wills

A will defines the executor (also known as a personal representative) and manager of your estate who pays debts and distributes property as specified. It can address beneficiaries, guardians for minor children, and direct family members about your funeral and burial wishes. However, for seamless estate administration, it simply isn't enough.

Trusts

A trust also distributes assets and property, but unlike a will, it doesn't have to go through probate. You can create and fund a revocable living trust and act as the directing trustee during your lifetime. You may undo the trust, change its terms, and move property and assets in and out of the trust's ownership at any time. Revocable living trusts are meant to switch to an irrevocable trust upon death.

An irrevocable trust does not easily allow for any change provisions. You can fund the trust with property and assets, but they are under the care and control of a named trustee. The trust can't easily be undone, but it does have unique tax advantages and other worthwhile benefits, including protecting your home and savings from the high costs of long-term care.

Advance Directives

Advance directives consist of two documents: a living will and a designation of healthcare surrogate.

A living will outlines your wishes for end-of-life medical care, including instructions regarding medical treatments in specific situations, so family members don’t have to stress over difficult decisions.

A designation of healthcare surrogate, or healthcare power of attorney, lets you choose someone you trust to make medical decisions for you when you aren't able. They are guided by your living will and ensure family and medical professionals understand your wishes.

Durable Power of Attorney

A durable power of attorney designates a person to act in your place for financial matters when you are unable to handle your affairs. It removes the need and expense of appointing a guardian.

Alexander P. Gil, Esq., was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2014. His firm focuses on estate planning, elder law, special needs planning, asset protection planning, guardianship, and probate administration. Many of his clients have concerns about providing for minor children as well as aging parents. Customized estate plans prepare families for potential financial and medical emergencies and preserve their legacy for future generations.

Probate in Florida: What You Need to Know and How We Can Help

"Probate" is collecting, managing, and distributing your final affairs in court. Contrary to popular belief, this process can happen with or without a Will (although having one gives you a say in who receives your assets and how they receive them).

When someone dies, their assets must be distributed among their surviving loved ones and beneficiaries. If they have a will—great—that will help inform the process, but if not, the state gets to decide.

Although there are several ways to avoid the process altogether, if you find yourself going up against the Florida probate courts, you can lean on an experienced Miami probate lawyer at Alexander Gil, PLLC, for help.

Trustworthy Estate Planning Solutions for Your Future

At Alexander Gil, PLLC, we are dedicated to providing trustworthy and reliable estate planning solutions to help you secure your future and protect your loved ones. Our experienced attorneys understand that each client's situation is unique, and we take the time to listen to your needs and goals to provide personalized solutions.

Our team is committed to providing empathetic and compassionate legal representation to every client we serve. We know that estate planning can be overwhelming, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. With our help, you can achieve peace of mind and feel confident that your loved ones and assets are protected.

Don't wait to plan for your future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you secure your legacy.

FAQ: Miami Estate Planning

How much does estate planning cost in Miami?

The cost of estate planning in Miami can vary depending on the complexity of your estate and your specific needs. At Alexander Gil, PLLC, we offer customized estate planning services tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today to discuss your needs.

Do I need an estate attorney in Florida?

Working with an experienced estate planning attorney in Florida is highly recommended to ensure your estate plan is properly executed and legally valid. Estate planning involves complex legal issues that require the knowledge and experience of a qualified attorney. An estate planning attorney can help you navigate the process, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your wishes are fulfilled after you're gone.

How do I avoid probate in Florida?

There are several ways to avoid probate in Florida, including setting up a revocable living trust, jointly owning property, designating beneficiaries on accounts and assets, and creating transfer-on-death deeds for real estate.

However, each method has its pros and cons, and the best way to avoid probate depends on your situation. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you determine the most appropriate method for your needs.

Do I need a will or trust in Florida?

Both a will and a trust can be valuable estate planning tools for residents of Florida. A will lets you specify who will receive your assets after your death and who will manage your affairs.

A trust can help you avoid probate and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. A trust can also provide for ongoing asset management if you become incapacitated. Speaking with a qualified estate planning attorney is important to determine the best approach for your specific circumstances.