Estate Planning

If you pass away without a will, Florida’s intestacy laws determine how your assets are divided. This means the court will distribute property based strictly on family relationships, which may not match your preferences. For many families, this creates confusion, delays, and unintended outcomes during an already difficult time. Having even a basic will ensures your decisions—not the default statute—guide what happens to your estate.

Wills and trusts serve different but equally important purposes. A will directs how remaining assets are distributed and names essential roles such as guardians or Personal Representatives. A trust allows certain assets to transfer outside of probate, providing privacy and potentially faster administration. Although tax considerations may play a role in some decisions, Parker & Maloney does not provide tax advice; however, we are always happy to partner with your accountant to ensure your plan aligns with your financial strategy.

Most clients should review their estate plan every few years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or significant financial changes. Laws also evolve, and updates help ensure your documents remain valid and protective. Our firm reviews existing plans with clients to identify gaps or outdated provisions that could cause problems later. If your goals, relationships, or assets have changed, updating your plan offers peace of mind and clarity.

A will is an important first step, but a complete estate plan usually includes additional tools such as trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. These documents cover situations that a will alone cannot address, including incapacity or multi-state property issues. We work with clients to determine the right combination of documents based on their priorities. When tax-related considerations arise, we coordinate with your accountant to ensure your legal and financial plans work together.

Costs vary depending on the complexity of your needs and the documents involved. Our firm offers flat-fee options for many standard estate planning services, providing transparency and predictability from the beginning. More complex matters may require customized pricing based on the level of detail and coordination involved. While taxes sometimes factor into planning decisions, Parker & Maloney does not provide tax advice; we collaborate with your accountant if needed so your objectives remain aligned across all areas.