Getting Married? Common Questions About Estate Planning In Tampa
Spring is one of the most popular times of the year for couples to get married. While you may be busy planning for the big day, take time to think about the future. Our Tampa estate planning attorney explains the documents you need and answers five commonly asked questions from engaged clients.
The Importance Of Creating An Estate Plan In Tampa
Estate planning involves putting legal documents in place to protect you, your property and assets, and the people you love. Most people assume their spouse will automatically be in charge if anything happens to them, but this is not always the case.
Not having an estate plan in Tampa could leave your spouse tied up in red tape. It could prevent them from gaining access to certain property or assets while subjecting them to time-consuming and potentially costly Manatee County Probate Court proceedings. Estate planning documents that help prevent this from happening:
- A will, conveying final wishes and determining how property and assets are divided;
- A trust, which helps with long-term care planning and allows for more detailed distributions among heirs;
- Advance directives, which communicate your wishes in the event you are incapacitated and authorize others to make important decisions on your behalf.
Common Questions Engaged Couples Have About Estate Planning
Estate planning documents in Tampa help to protect you and your soon-to-be spouse, both now and in the years to come. Common questions our Tampa estate planning attorneys hear from engaged clients include:
- Should I name my future spouse as executor of my will?
While married couples often name each other as executors, this may not be the best choice. They will be grieving and may not have the time, energy, or skills needed to deal with the probate court and any issues that arise.
- What happens if one of us becomes incapacitated?
Advance directives clarify your wishes regarding medical care if you are incapacitated, sparing your spouse difficult decisions.
- What will happen to my business?
Establishing power of attorney allows someone you trust to manage your business in the event you are unable to.
- What plans should we make for our children?
Whether you have a family together, hope to start one in the future, or have children from prior relationships, a trust allows you to designate a guardian and provides for your child’s financial needs.
Request A Consultation With Our Tampa Estate Planning Attorney Today
Estate planning is an important matter for engaged couples to address. At Strategic Counsel Law Group, L.C., we provide the trusted legal guidance you need to put the appropriate documents in place. To request a consultation with our Tampa estate planning attorney, call or contact our office online today.
Sources:
manateeclerk.com/departments/probate-and-guardianship/
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0732/Sections/0732.502.html
