We provide specialized winterization services to safeguard your pool during the off-season, and when spring arrives, we handle the thorough opening process.
We provide specialized winterization services to safeguard your pool during the off-season, and when spring arrives, we handle the thorough opening process.
Trusts are powerful estate planning tools that provide advantages wills alone cannot offer. A trust creates a legal arrangement where property is held by one party (the trustee) for the benefit of another (the beneficiary). For Wakulla County residents, trusts offer enhanced privacy, potential probate avoidance, and greater control over how and when your assets pass to your loved ones. Whether you own waterfront property, a family home in Crawfordville, or have specific wishes for how your assets should be managed, a properly structured trust can help protect what matters most.
Trusts aren’t just for the wealthy—they’re practical solutions for many Wakulla families who want to maintain control over their legacy, minimize court involvement, and create specific protections for their loved ones. As your neighbor and local attorney, I design trusts that address your unique circumstances while ensuring they function exactly as intended under Florida law.
Establishing your trust begins with identifying your specific goals and concerns. I’ll guide you through selecting the right type of trust, appointing appropriate trustees, and properly funding your trust—the crucial step many overlook. Your trust is then carefully drafted and executed, with clear guidance on maintaining it throughout your lifetime.
Revocable living trusts are the most common trust type, allowing you to maintain complete control while providing for seamless transition of assets upon death. These trusts are ideal for Wakulla homeowners wanting to keep family property transfers private and avoid the probate process.
For families with loved ones who have special needs, specialized trusts can provide for their care without jeopardizing essential government benefits. This thoughtful planning ensures your loved one’s quality of life while preserving important resources.
A trust is a legal arrangement where one party (the trustee) holds and manages assets for the benefit of another (the beneficiary). Unlike a will, a trust can take effect during your lifetime and continue after your death, providing seamless asset management and potentially avoiding probate.
No. While trusts were once primarily used by the wealthy, they now offer practical benefits for many Wakulla families of modest means. Trusts are particularly valuable for:
A will takes effect only at death and must go through probate court. A trust can work during your lifetime and after death, potentially avoiding probate entirely. Wills become public record, while trusts remain private. Trusts also offer more control over how and when assets are distributed to beneficiaries.
Key benefits include:
A revocable living trust is the most common trust type. It allows you to:
Unlike revocable trusts, irrevocable trusts generally cannot be changed after creation. While this reduces flexibility, it can provide:
This specialized trust provides for a person with disabilities without disqualifying them from essential government benefits like Medicaid or SSI. It can significantly improve quality of life while preserving vital support services. For Wakulla families caring for loved ones with special needs, this trust is an essential planning tool.
Depending on your situation, we might consider:
Funding means transferring ownership of assets into the trust. This crucial step is how the trust gains control of your property. Without proper funding, many trust benefits are lost. I provide clear guidance through this process for all Wakulla clients, ensuring your trust works as intended.
Yes, with a revocable living trust, you typically serve as the initial trustee, maintaining complete control. You'll name successor trustees to take over if you become incapacitated or pass away. We'll discuss appropriate trustee selections during the planning process.
Common assets to consider include:
For most Wakulla residents, their home is their most valuable asset. Transferring your home to your revocable trust:
Florida's unique homestead laws impact how your primary residence can be handled in your trust. These laws can create complications if not properly addressed. As your Wakulla attorney, I ensure your trust properly navigates these provisions while protecting your property.
While trusts offer many benefits, potential drawbacks include:
Florida law recognizes most standard trust types, but some specialized trusts may work differently here than in other states. This is one reason generic online trusts often fail to achieve their intended purpose in Florida.
Trust packages start at $1,500, with discounted rates for Wakulla County residents. This includes consultation, custom document preparation, execution, initial funding guidance, and digital copies. While this is more than a simple will, the long-term savings from avoiding probate often offset this initial investment.
The process typically takes 2-3 weeks from initial consultation to signing. We'll work at your pace, ensuring you understand each provision. After signing, we'll provide guidance for funding your trust properly.
Your Florida trust remains valid if you move to another state. However, you should have it reviewed by an attorney in your new state to ensure it complies with local laws, particularly regarding real estate.
During our initial consultation, we'll discuss your family situation, assets, and goals to determine if a trust makes sense for you. For many Wakulla families, trusts offer significant benefits that outweigh the initial investment. I provide straightforward guidance without pressure, focusing on what best serves your specific needs.