Probate & Estate Planning
Estate planning can be an uncomfortable topic. You are faced with your own mortality and difficult decisions. You have to ask yourself, what is fair, what is right, and what is necessary.
Some law firms see probate planning as a form to be completed, standard questions to ask, cookie-cutter responses, and simple wills. This approach can be disastrous.
Woodward Law knows that probate and estate planning is more than just filling out legal documents. Probate and estate planning is about understanding your needs—both financial and personal, and then applying the law to ensure your wishes are executed according to a plan.
Scroll to learn more about the probate and estate planning process.
Inventory Tangible Assets
You might think, "I don't have enough to justify estate planning." But once you take a second look around, you will be surprised by all the tangible and intangible assets you have. Real Estate, Vehicles, Collectables, Stocks, Insurance Policies, and Financial Accounts are just a few of the things Woodward Law can help you identify, inventory, and assign.
Protect Your Family
Is there enough money to cover costs? Childcare? Tuition bills? Who has guardianship responsibilities? Who needs a little more help and who is in a good position? What are the tax implications to my family? These are just a few of the questions we ask. We also help you answer all the important questions.
Important Legal Directives
Estate planning is not just about assigning assets to loved ones. Probate and estate planning is about assigning medical care directives if you are incapacitated. It is about financial power of attorney and who is the executor of the estate. Planning is about who has limited power of attorney and who s responsible for your financial well-being.
Beneficiaries And Wishes
When setting up a retirement account and/or insurance, you list a beneficiary. This can take place decades before setting up a will. Believe it or not, we've seen ex-wives/husbands, former in-laws, and even roommates listed on these documents, and we've seen beneficiary designations outweigh wills. You want the right people to get the right stiff, and we can help. Woodward Law will review all your policies and accounts, identify and revise beneficiaries as needed, and help you identify contingent beneficiaries. Schedule a free consultation.
Tax Laws And Protection
Estate planning is the easiest way to minimize estate and inheritance/death taxes. Exemptions vary by state and beneficiaries living out of state can complicate the processes further. Woodward Law has experience developing strategies to minimize taxes for Florida residence and out of state beneficiaries.
Plan To Reassess
Businesses grow, relationships blossom, and family needs change. For better or worse, you need to revisit your estate plan periodically. Even if your situation is the same, laws change, and changes to the law may effect your wishes. We are here to make sure what you want is documents, is legal, and will be executed when needed. Get started by contacting us for a free consultation.
The Value Of Professionals
If your estate is small and your wishes are simple, a simple will and account review is all you need. For larger estates, families with young children, business owners, non-familial heirs, and other complex situations, Woodward Law can help you establish a plan and create the necessary documentation to assure your wishes are fulfilled.
Probate & Estate Planning Services
preparing documents appointing someone competent to manage your affairs should you become incapacitated and unable to make your own decisions
preparing documents that will ensure the needs and wants of your minor children are addressed in your estate plan by establishing trusts and naming guardians who will care for and bring up your children in the way you desire
assist you through the probate process in the court system