Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Planning in St. Augustine

Working with an estate lawyer in St. Augustine, FL, can help you protect what matters most. The questions below address common concerns clients bring to the Law Office of Shorstein & Lee.

• A well-drafted estate plan may include a will, a trust, a durable power of attorney, a health care surrogate designation, and a living will.
• Florida law requires specific formalities for valid wills, including two witnesses and proper signing procedures.
• A trust may allow your loved ones to avoid probate, potentially saving time and expense after your passing.
• Alyssa Shorstein holds a Certificate in Estates and Trusts from the University of Florida Levin College of Law and has handled estate planning matters since 2009.

The Law Office of Shorstein & Lee provides estate planning services in St. Augustine, FL, tailored to each client’s individual goals and family circumstances. To schedule a consultation, call (904) 829-3035 or visit the firm’s probate page for related services.

What Is the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?

A will is a legal document that directs how your assets are distributed after death, while a trust can manage and transfer assets both during your lifetime and after. Trusts may help beneficiaries avoid probate, which can reduce delays and costs. An estate lawyer in St. Augustine, FL, can review your circumstances and explain which option, or combination of both, may best align with your goals.

Who Needs an Estate Plan in Florida?

Most adults in Florida can benefit from having at least a basic estate plan in place. Without one, state law determines how assets are distributed, which may not reflect your wishes. Estate planning may also address health care decisions and financial management if you become incapacitated, not just what happens after death. If you are unsure where to start, an estate lawyer in St. Augustine, FL, can help you identify which documents are most important for your situation.

Do I Need a Trust If My Estate Is Small?

Not necessarily. A trust is not required in every situation, but it may offer advantages depending on your assets, family structure, and goals. During a consultation, an estate lawyer in St. Augustine, FL, will evaluate your specific circumstances and help you determine whether a will alone or a trust-based plan would better serve your needs.

How Do I Know If My Current Estate Plan Still Reflects My Wishes?

Life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or acquiring new assets may affect whether your existing documents still reflect your intentions. It is generally a good idea to review your estate plan after any major life event. Consulting an estate lawyer in St. Augustine, FL, can help identify gaps or outdated provisions and ensure your plan still reflects your wishes.

What Preplanning Documents Should I Have Alongside My Will or Trust?

In addition to a will or trust, a complete estate plan often includes a durable power of attorney, a health care surrogate designation, a designation of pre-need guardian, and a living will or advance directive. These documents address decisions that may need to be made if you become incapacitated before death, not just after.