Fort Lauderdale Estate Planning Attorney

Secure your legacy with a Fort Lauderdale estate plan

Thinking about the future can feel overwhelming, but preparing for it is one of the most loving steps you can take for your family. Life is unpredictable, and accidents, illnesses, and other unforeseen circumstances can happen at any time. Without a proper estate plan in place, decisions about your assets, health, and family could be made by others, not by you.

At The Levy Firm PLLC in Fort Lauderdale, an experienced estate planning lawyer can help you create a plan that reflects your wishes and protects what matters most. Learn more. Contact us for a free consultation.

Key estate planning decisions you control in Fort Lauderdale

A personalized estate plan gives you the power to make critical decisions about your future, tailored to the unique aspects of life in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re navigating local industries, protecting valuable waterfront properties, or ensuring your family has access to South Florida’s leading healthcare options, estate planning puts you in control of what matters most.

1. Healthcare preferences. Decide what life-saving measures you’d want – or wouldn’t want – in serious medical situations. Fort Lauderdale residents often consider proximity to renowned facilities like Broward Health Medical Center or Holy Cross Health when naming trusted healthcare proxies.
2. Child guardianship. Protect your children by naming guardians who share your values and priorities. If you’re part of Fort Lauderdale’s close-knit communities in neighborhoods like Victoria Park or Coral Ridge, you may already have someone in mind who understands the local school systems and family-friendly amenities.
3. Asset and wealth distribution. Specify how and to whom your property and investments should be allocated. From waterfront homes along Las Olas Boulevard to business interests in Fort Lauderdale’s bustling hospitality and marine industries, careful planning ensures your assets are distributed as you intend.
4. Business and financial management. Outline how your business or finances will be handled in your absence. Fort Lauderdale’s thriving small businesses, including yacht charter services, local restaurants, and boutique shops, require clear succession plans to ensure continued success.
5. Inheritance goals. Ensure your legacy aligns with your values and family priorities. Whether you want to preserve generational wealth through trusts, donate to local organizations like the Museum of Discovery and Science, or ensure a seamless transition of your real estate investments, an estate plan can make it happen.

Without clear instructions, disputes among loved ones may arise, creating unnecessary stress during an already difficult time. Proactive estate planning can prevent these conflicts while safeguarding your legacy and reflecting the unique opportunities and challenges of life in Fort Lauderdale.

Estate planning in Fort Lauderdale: Customized for you

The Levy Firm PLLC focuses on creating tailored estate plans for residents in Fort Lauderdale. From waterfront homeowners to small business owners and retirees, we understand the unique needs of this vibrant community. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an existing plan, we offer comprehensive legal guidance to help you achieve peace of mind.

We assist with all aspects of estate planning, including:

• Wills
• Trusts
• Healthcare directives
• Power of attorney
• Business succession planning
• Wealth preservation strategies

Each estate plan is designed to reflect your individual goals, reduce tax burdens, and avoid unnecessary court processes. Our firm can also help with real estate transactions and disputes in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Why Fort Lauderdale residents should plan to avoid probate

Probate can be a lengthy, expensive process that delays the distribution of assets to your beneficiaries. In Florida, any estate without a will must go through probate, leaving important decisions in the hands of the court. This includes:

• Naming guardians for minor children
• Distributing property and investments
• Handling debts and financial obligations

For residents of Fort Lauderdale, avoiding probate is a common priority. Proper estate planning – like establishing a trust or updating beneficiary designations – can help you bypass this process entirely.

Florida’s essential estate planning documents

A complete estate plan includes several key documents, each addressing specific aspects of your life and legacy. These typically include:

• Last will and testament. Outlines asset distribution and appoints guardians for minor children.
• Living will. Provides instructions for end-of-life medical care.
• Healthcare surrogate. Names a trusted person to make medical decisions if you cannot.
• Durable power of attorney. Grants someone authority to manage financial matters on your behalf.
• Trusts. Enables assets to transfer to beneficiaries privately and often without probate.

Having these documents in place ensures your wishes are followed while minimizing family disputes and legal hurdles.

The Levy Firm PLLC: Trusted guidance for Fort Lauderdale families

The Levy Firm PLLC has deep roots in South Florida and is proud to serve the Fort Lauderdale community. We understand that estate planning is a deeply personal process, and we approach every case with care and precision. With decades of experience, our firm offers:

• Personalized service. Every plan is designed to meet your unique needs.
• Comprehensive support. From drafting documents to coordinating with financial advisors, we handle every detail.
• Proactive solutions. We stay ahead of legal and financial challenges, ensuring your plan adapts as your life evolves.
• Lifetime guidance. When you work with us, you’ll have access to ongoing support and advice whenever you need it.

Take the first step toward peace of mind

Estate planning isn’t just about preparing for the future – it’s about ensuring your loved ones are cared for in the way you want. The Levy Firm PLLC is here to help Fort Lauderdale families protect their assets and secure their legacies. Contact us today for a free consultation to begin creating an estate plan that gives you peace of mind and control over what matters most.