Estate Planning

Florida Estate Planning Attorney. Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and ensure your wishes are carried out. At Fighter Law, our experienced Florida estate planning attorneys guide clients through every stage of planning with compassion and clarity. Whether you’re creating a will, setting up a trust, or avoiding probate, we’re here to help you secure your legacy.

What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning involves developing a strategy to manage and distribute your assets both during your life and after death. It includes more than just drafting a will. Florida estate planning attorneys help ensure your assets are protected, taxes are minimized, probate is avoided, and your family is supported according to your wishes. Ultimately, planning ahead reduces stress and costs for your loved ones.

Why Choose Fighter Law for Your Estate Planning Needs?

Thomas Fighter and Jessica Travis are board-certified attorneys by The Florida Bar—an honor held by fewer than 7% of lawyers in the state. With decades of combined experience and hundreds of five-star reviews, Fighter Law provides personalized and results-driven legal services to clients throughout Central Florida.

• Expert advice from experienced Florida estate planning attorneys
• Customized plans tailored to your specific goals
• Peace of mind knowing your family’s future is secure

The Importance of a Will in Florida

A will is the foundation of any estate plan. It outlines how your property should be distributed after your death. Without one, Florida intestacy laws decide for you—often with results that may not align with your intentions. Our estate planning attorneys in Florida ensure your will is valid, clear, and enforceable.

Key Benefits of Having a Will

• Control Over Your Assets: Decide who inherits and in what proportions.
• Guardianship for Minor Children: Appoint someone you trust.
• Reduce Family Disputes: Prevent legal battles and misunderstandings.
• Ease the Probate Process: A solid will helps avoid delays and legal complications.

Trusts: A Powerful Estate Planning Tool

Trusts offer flexibility and privacy. Unlike wills, they can take effect during your lifetime. They allow you to transfer assets, manage property, avoid probate, and support beneficiaries according to specific instructions. Our Florida estate planning lawyers help determine which type of trust is right for your goals.

Types of Trusts in Florida

• Revocable Living Trusts: Offer control, flexibility, and probate avoidance.
• Irrevocable Trusts: Cannot be changed but provide asset protection and tax benefits.
• Special Needs Trusts: Designed to support a disabled beneficiary without jeopardizing benefits.
• Charitable Trusts: Enable giving while providing tax advantages.

How to Avoid Probate in Florida

Probate is a court-supervised process that can be slow, costly, and public. Our estate planning attorneys in Orlando use various tools to help you avoid probate whenever possible.

Strategies to Avoid Probate

• Creating a revocable living trust
• Designating beneficiaries on accounts
• Using TOD (Transfer-on-Death) and POD (Payable-on-Death) accounts
• Joint ownership with rights of survivorship

Advance Directives in Estate Planning

Advance directives ensure your healthcare and financial decisions are respected if you become incapacitated. They are a critical part of a complete estate plan.

• Living Will: Documents your medical preferences.
• Healthcare Surrogate: Names someone to make medical decisions for you.
• Durable Power of Attorney: Appoints someone to manage your finances.

Protecting Your Family’s Future

Whether you’re starting a family or managing a complex estate, our Florida estate planning attorneys create comprehensive strategies that reflect your values and protect your loved ones.

FAQs About Estate Planning in Florida

Do I need a will if I already have a trust?

Yes. A “pour-over” will ensures assets not included in the trust are still distributed according to your wishes.

How often should I update my estate plan?

You should review your estate plan every few years or after life changes like marriage, divorce, births, or major financial shifts.

Can I handle estate planning on my own?

DIY tools exist, but legal mistakes can be costly. It’s best to consult a qualified Florida estate planning lawyer.

Talk to a Florida Estate Planning Attorney Today

Take control of your future today. Our Florida estate planning attorneys are ready to help you craft a plan that honors your wishes and supports your family. Contact Fighter Law now to schedule a consultation with attorneys Thomas Fighter and Jessica Travis.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

External Resources

• Florida Bar: Estate Planning Guide
• Nolo: Estate Planning in Florida
• Florida Courts: Self-Help Center