Palm Harbor, FL Estate Planning & Probate Lawyers
The Law Offices of Sherri M. Stinson is committed to providing exceptional estate planning services that prioritize your family’s well-being and secure the legacies you hold dear. We understand that estate planning can be complex and overwhelming, especially for seniors who may face unique challenges. That’s why we go beyond the legal aspects and ensure your voice is heard throughout the entire process. We believe in actively listening to your concerns, addressing your specific needs, and guiding you with patience and understanding.
Why Us?
We design estate plans that are custom tailored to your family, your needs and your goals. Our dedicated team of professionals work one-on-one with you to make sure we create a comprehensive plan that aligns with your needs.
Our commitment to personalized service and attention to detail sets us apart. No two people or families are the same, and we believe estate plans should be centered around your needs, instead of cookie-cutter forms that just look like what you think you need. With this in mind, we will work closely with you to craft a customized estate plan that reflects your values, protects your assets, and addresses your long-term objectives.
Estate Planning: A Task Nobody Wants, but Everyone Needs
Not sure where
to start
Worried about
the cost
Find the whole process overwhelming
Don’t think you’ll have enough assets
Let’s face it — We All Tend to Put Off Estate Planning for Various Reasons.
Don’t want to think about your own mortality
Unsure who
to trust
Just think you can do it yourself?
Or you just haven’t gotten around to it
No matter where you’re at in life, we’re always here to help.
Professionals
& Executives
retirees
Empty
Nesters
Caregivers
Blended
Families
Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
Here’s What Our Clients Think About Working With Us
Taking the First Steps: What's Most Important to You
Who are the important people in your life?
Estate planning starts with recognizing the important people in your life. This includes your spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, and other significant individuals. It could even extend to charities, causes, universities, or churches that hold special meaning for you. Take the time to reflect on the impact these people and organizations have had on your life. Make a list and jot down notes to lay the foundation for your estate planning journey.
What do you own?
Next up is your property—the assets you own or control. Create a comprehensive list, focusing on the nature of your assets (cash, stocks, real estate, etc.), their approximate value, and the ownership arrangements (individual, joint, trust, etc.). While precise details such as policy numbers and exact values aren’t necessary right away, it’s important to consider all assets, including often-overlooked ones like life insurance policies (death benefit), business interests, and potential inheritances.
What do you want to happen?
There will be a lot of critical questions and decisions regarding incapacity or death scenarios. Who would you entrust with important decisions if you were unable to make them yourself? How would you provide for your minor children? What are your desired asset distribution arrangements? By addressing these issues, we’ll craft plans that safeguard your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out, while considering factors such as probate avoidance, tax minimization, charitable bequests, and special needs provisions.
Take the next step...
Whether you still have questions or are ready to move forward, we’re here to help.
Comprehensive Estate Planning Services for Aging Floridians
We go beyond offering standalone services or single documents – our focus is delivering comprehensive estate plans that cover every essential aspect. Let us help craft a full-package plan, with a holistic approach that safeguards your legacy and protects your loved ones. With our experience and attention to detail, you can trust that your estate plan will be meticulously designed to address your family’s specific goals and aspirations.
Here’s what’s covered in our Estate Plans…
Guardianship
Trusts
Advance
Directives
Incapacity
Planning
Wills
Asset
Protection
Supporting You Through The Probate Journey
With our extensive knowledge of Florida probate laws and procedures, we will guide you through each step with empathy and care. We are dedicated to protecting your interests and honoring your loved one’s legacy. You can trust us to handle the intricate details and legal complexities, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: cherishing the memories and supporting your family during this time of healing.
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FAQs
In Florida, estates with non-exempt assets valued at $75,000 or more for a decedent that has passed away in the last two years will typically go through formal probate. Smaller estates or those owned by decedents who have passed away more than two years ago may qualify for summary administration, a less involved process.
Comprehensive estate plans generally include essential estate planning documents like a will, trust, power of attorney, and advance directive. Ultimately, the documents included in your estate plan will be unique to your personal and financial needs.
The cost of creating an estate plan can vary depending on the complexity of your assets and your specific needs. It’s best to consult with an estate planning attorney who can provide an estimate based on your circumstances.
Whether you need a will or a trust depends on your individual circumstances and goals. A will is necessary to outline your wishes regarding asset distribution, while a trust offers additional benefits such as avoiding probate and providing privacy. However, In most cases, having both a will and a trust is ideal.
While it is not legally required to hire an estate attorney in Florida, having professional guidance is highly recommended. An experienced estate attorney can help you make informed decisions, and ensure that your estate plan is properly structured to meet your goals and comply with Florida laws.
