Estate planning is often misunderstood as something only older adults or wealthy individuals need. In reality, every adult in Florida can benefit from having an estate plan in place. Life is unpredictable, and an estate plan helps ensure your wishes are honored, your loved ones are protected, and unnecessary legal complications are avoided. At Michael Greenwald, P.A., we provide legal assistance to the Broward County public to help individuals and families plan for the future with confidence.

What an Estate Plan Really Does

An estate plan is a set of legal documents that outlines how your assets will be managed and distributed if you pass away or become incapacitated. It can also address who will make medical or financial decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Without an estate plan, Florida law—not you—decides what happens to your property and who has authority over critical decisions.

Avoiding Probate and Delays

Probate can be a lengthy and costly court process. A well-prepared estate plan can reduce or even avoid probate altogether by using tools such as trusts, beneficiary designations, and proper asset titling. This allows your loved ones to access assets more quickly and with less stress during an already difficult time.

Protecting Your Loved Ones

If you have minor children, an estate plan allows you to name a guardian to care for them if something happens to you. Without this, the court will make that decision. An estate plan can also provide financial protections for family members, including spouses, children, or dependents with special needs.

Planning for Incapacity

Estate planning is not just about what happens after death. Documents like a durable power of attorney and advance healthcare directive allow you to choose who can manage your finances and make medical decisions if you become incapacitated. This can prevent confusion, conflict, and the need for court intervention.

Updating Your Plan as Life Changes

Major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or acquiring new property should prompt a review of your estate plan. Florida laws and personal circumstances change over time, and keeping your plan up to date ensures it continues to reflect your wishes.

Estate Planning Is Not Just for the Wealthy

Even modest estates benefit from planning. An estate plan can help distribute personal property, handle digital assets, and provide clarity for loved ones. No matter the size of your estate, having a plan in place gives peace of mind and legal clarity.

How Legal Guidance Can Help

Estate planning involves important legal decisions that can have long-term consequences. Working with a knowledgeable attorney helps ensure documents are properly drafted and aligned with Florida law. At Michael Greenwald, P.A., we assist Broward County residents in creating estate plans that address their unique needs and goals.