5 Tips Concerning Your Will that Most People Forget.

At this point in time, most people understand the importance of wills in Florda and the difference a properly executed will can make when administering your Florida estate. 

However, there are a few things that are all-too-commonly overlooked:

1. Living Will: Florida law now provides for a written declaration by an individual specifying directions as to use of life-prolonging procedures should the individual need life support.
2. Power of Attorney: This document can assist in handling the property of a Florida residentwho has become incapacitated without having to open a Florida guardianship proceeding in court. This is especially valuable for paying the bills and protecting the assets of anincapacitated person in Florida. However, a power of attorney is not valid or enforceable after the death of that person.
3. State-to-State Transfers: If you have moved to Florida from another state, it is wise to have your will reviewed by a Florida lawyer to be sure that it is properly executed according tothe wills and trust laws of Florida, that you have witnesses that are readily available to prove your will in Florida, and that your executor, or personal representative, is qualified to serve inFlorida.
4. Health Care Surrogate: Florida estate planning law now allows individuals to designate a person to make health care decisions for them when the individual may not be able to do so.
5. “Pre-Need” Guardian Designation: Florida also allows you to designate a person who could be appointed guardian over you should you become incapacitated and/or over your children should you become incapacitated or upon your death. This is very important because, if you fail to designate a guardian, the court will do so for you if and when it becomes necessary.

Any West Palm Beach Probate litigation attorney will tell you that these factors come up more frequently that one may think.  What’s the best way to deal with those scenarios?  Address them head on with sufficient preparation and proper Florida estate planning.

See http://www.pankauskilawfirm.com/ for videos and information on Wills in Florida, Florida Probate Law, Estate Planning, and Estate Administration in Florida.