Legal Guidance for Wills and Estate Planning In Lakeland
A will gives your family clear instructions about what should happen to your property after death. Without a will in Florida, state intestacy laws decide who receives your assets, which may not match your wishes. Working with an estate planning lawyer can help you avoid uncertainty and make sure your plan is written with care.
Our firm, Stephen H. Artman, P.A., helps clients in Polk County and across Florida with writing a will, updating an existing estate plan and understanding how a last will and testament fits into the bigger picture. With 35 years of experience, attorney Stephen H. Artman provides practical guidance for families who want clear answers and a plan they can trust.
How A Will Protects Your Family’s Future
A will allows you to:
- Name the people or organizations who should receive your property
- Choose a personal representative to handle your estate
- Leave instructions for personal items, money or real estate
- Name a guardian for minor children
- Support a broader estate planning strategy
However, a will cannot avoid probate by itself, and it may not control assets with beneficiary designations, jointly owned property or assets held in a trust. A lawyer can review these details so your documents work together instead of creating gaps.
What To Include In Your Will
A will should reflect your family, your assets and your long-term wishes. It should also clearly identify your:
- Beneficiaries
- Personal representative
- Backup choices
- Property covered by the document
If you have minor children, your will should name a trusted guardian. You may also want to address specific gifts, family heirlooms, digital assets and provide instructions for handling debts or expenses.
Do You Need A Lawyer When Drafting A Will In Florida?
Florida does not require every person to hire a lawyer to create a will, but working with an estate planning attorney can help prevent mistakes that could cause problems later. A will must meet Florida’s signing and witness requirements, and small errors can lead to disputes, delays or challenges after death.
DIY forms may seem simple, but they can miss important details, especially when families have blended households, real estate, business interests or unusual asset concerns.
Work With A Lakeland Estate Planning Attorney
At Stephen H. Artman, P.A., we take time to understand your family, property and goals before preparing your will. Attorney Stephen H. Artman believes honest conversations lead to stronger planning.
Whether you need a new last will and testament or updates to an older plan, our firm can help you make informed decisions with Florida-specific guidance and 35 years of experience. Dial 863-940-0874 or send us an email to get in touch with an experienced lawyer.