Wills

Wills Attorney in Largo, FL

Protecting Your Legacy with Thoughtful Estate Planning

A last will and testament is one of the most widely used estate planning tools. When executed properly, this document will clearly dictate how your assets and property should be distributed after your passing. Additionally, it may designate guardians for minor children, feature directions for establishing a testamentary trust, and provide other important instructions for your estate's management.

Unfortunately, far too many people have not created a will or have relied on a DIY form that fails to fully serve their interests, yields unclear terms, and does not adhere to Florida's estate laws. Here is where Preservation Law Firm can be an invaluable resource. Our highly experienced Largo wills attorney, Adam Rauman, can help you create a will that safeguards your future.

As our firm's name suggests, we are all about preservation. Leveraging our attorney's extensive experience in financial advising, our services cater to those seeking to protect assets and seamlessly transfer them to loved ones and other beneficiaries. Whether you must craft a will from scratch, need an attorney to review and update an existing document, or anything in between, you can turn to Attorney Rauman and our firm's team with confidence.

Secure your future with a legally sound will
Ensure your wishes are protected and your loved ones are cared for. Contact us today at (727) 955-3872 for a free consultation.

Why Should You Create a Will?

Above, we suggested it is unfortunate that many people do not have a will or have instituted one that does not fully provide for their needs. But why exactly are these things “unfortunate”?

First and foremost, a will allows you to determine who gets your property and assets, what portion they get, and even when the transfer should occur. Without a will, these matters are determined by Florida law, which likely will not align with your wishes or the best interests of the people and organizations you care for most.

Other reasons to create a will include:

Designating guardians to make certain that people you trust will be there to support and care for young children or those with special needs
Naming a trusted executor to oversee the probate process and manage your estate's distribution
Avoiding potential disputes among family members or other beneficiaries over who gets what in your estate
Minimizing the time and costs associated with probate by creating a clear and efficient plan for your assets' distribution
Enabling you to express final wishes for your funeral or burial, as well as specific requests or wishes you have for your heirs

If You Have Established a Trust, Do You Need a Will?

In short, yes. Even if you have a trust in place, you should still create a will. While a trust can manage and protect many of your estate's assets (and provide a smoother distribution process, often without probate), there may be items that fall outside of it or that you do not retitle before passing. In such cases, a will can ensure that these assets are distributed according to your wishes and not left up to Florida's intestate laws.

Plus, wills allow you to do things that you cannot with a trust, from naming guardians for your children to specifying how you may want your funeral to look and be conducted.

Different Types of Wills in Florida

A will is an essential estate planning document, but not all wills are the same. Florida recognizes several types, each serving a different purpose.

Understanding the Various Will Options Available

Simple Will – A basic document outlining how your assets should be distributed. Suitable for those with straightforward estates.
Testamentary Trust Will – Includes a trust that takes effect upon your passing, allowing you to set conditions on asset distribution. Ideal for minor children or special needs beneficiaries.
Pour-Over Will – Works alongside a trust by directing any remaining assets into the trust at death. Ensures all assets are protected under trust terms.
Joint Will – Created by two individuals, typically spouses, with shared instructions. Once one spouse passes, it cannot be changed.
Holographic & Oral Wills – These informal wills are handwritten or spoken, but Florida does not recognize them as legally valid.

Choosing the Right Will for Your Estate Plan

The best type of will depends on your financial situation, family structure, and long-term goals. If you have minor children, a testamentary trust will may be a smart choice. If you already have a trust, a pour-over will ensures no assets are left out. Consulting an attorney can help you select the right option.

What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Florida?

Without a will, state law decides what happens to your assets. This process, called intestate succession, may not reflect your wishes.

How Florida Law Distributes Your Assets Without a Will

If you are married with no children, your spouse inherits everything.
If you have children from the same spouse, your spouse still inherits everything.
If you have children from a previous relationship, your children receive half, and your spouse receives half.
If you have no spouse or children, assets go to other relatives (parents, siblings, etc.).
If you have no living relatives, the state takes your assets.

Why Estate Planning Helps Prevent Unintended Outcomes

Without a will, your assets might not go to the people you intended. If you have a blended family, your spouse and children could receive different portions than expected. Creating a will ensures your property, guardianship choices, and final wishes are legally protected.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Will

A poorly drafted will can cause legal issues and delays for your loved ones. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your will is valid and effective.

Errors That Can Make Your Will Invalid

Not following Florida’s legal requirements – Florida law requires two witnesses for a will to be valid. It must also be signed properly.
Using an online template – Generic forms may not comply with Florida law or reflect your specific needs.
Not updating your will – Life changes, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, require updates to keep your will accurate.

How to Ensure Your Will Accurately Reflects Your Wishes

Work with an attorney to draft a legally sound will.
Review your will every few years or after major life events.
Name an executor you trust to carry out your wishes properly.

A well-prepared will gives you peace of mind and ensures your loved ones are protected.

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Updating Your Will: When & How to Do It

A will is not a static document; you can and should update it throughout your lifetime. Major life events, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, or the acquisition of significant assets, are just some reasons to revisit and possibly revise your will's terms.

Updating your will can be done through a codicil (a legal amendment to an existing will) or by revoking the old will and creating a new one. Whichever route you choose, it is essential to work with an experienced lawyer who understands the intricacies of Florida estate law and can make certain that your updates are legally binding.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wills in Florida

Do I need a will if I don’t own much property?

Yes. Even if you have limited assets, a will ensures your belongings go to the people you choose. It also allows you to name a guardian for minor children and specify your final wishes.

Can I write my own will without an attorney?

While Florida law allows you to draft your own will, it must meet specific legal requirements to be valid. A DIY will can lead to errors, making it easier to be challenged or invalidated in court. An attorney helps ensure your will is properly executed.

What is the difference between a will and a living will?

A will determines how your assets are distributed after your death. A living will outlines your medical care preferences if you become incapacitated and unable to communicate your wishes. Both are important parts of an estate plan.

Can I name multiple executors in my will?

Yes, you can appoint co-executors, but doing so may create complications. If they disagree, it can slow down the probate process. It’s often best to name one primary executor and an alternate in case they are unable to serve.

Does my will need to be notarized?

No, but having a notarized self-proving affidavit attached can speed up the probate process by eliminating the need for witnesses to testify in court.

Can I change my will after signing it?

Yes. You can update your will anytime by creating a codicil (an amendment) or by drafting a new will that revokes the old one. Major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child are good reasons to review and update your will.

What happens if my beneficiaries die before me?

If a beneficiary passes away before you, their share typically goes to their heirs unless you specify otherwise. Naming backup beneficiaries ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Ready to Draft a Will? Turn to Us.

When you partner with Preservation Law Firm, you can expect our attorney and supporting team to take great care to understand your values, needs, and goals. Should you want to create a will, you can trust us to produce a document that is clear, legally sound, and reflective of your wishes. If you already have a will but are unsure if it is still valid or does everything it must, we can assist with that, too.

Need to Create or Update Your Will?
Don’t leave important decisions to chance. Contact us now at (727) 955-3872 to get started.

Compassionate Probate and Estate Planning Guidance
Attorney Rauman approaches every case with empathy, guiding clients through complex processes like probate and estate planning with clarity and care.
Financial Expertise Meets Legal Insight

With 15 years as a licensed financial advisor and over a decade as an attorney, Adam blends deep financial knowledge with sharp legal skills to deliver comprehensive solutions.
Passion for Legacy Preservation
Attorney Rauman's mission is to ensure his clients’ wishes are honored, their families protected, and their legacies preserved for generations to come.
Free Consultations Available
We believe that protecting your legacy should start with understanding your unique needs. That’s why we offer free consultations to discuss your goals and explore the best path forward.

Let’s Secure Your Future Together

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1920 East Bay Drive
Largo, FL 33771

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Have Questions? We Have Answers. 727-955-3872