Top Fort Myers, FL Trust & Estate Lawyers Near You
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4020 Evans Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Other Nearby Offices
Fischler, Friedman, & Bennett, P.A. has experience helping clients with their Trust & Estate needs in Fort Myers, Florida.
6720 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919
5290 Summerlin Commons Way, Suite 1003, Fort Myers, FL 33907
615 Cape Coral Pkwy W, Suite 206, Cape Coral, FL 33914
5237 Summerlin Commons Blvd, Suite 350, Fort Myers, FL 33907
1500 Jackson St, Suite 201, Fort Myers, FL 33901
12661 New Brittany Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33907
1436 Royal Palm Square Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
8695 College Parkway, Suite 202, Fort Myers, FL 33919
27299 Riverview Center Blvd, Ste 103, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
1380 Royal Palm Square Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919
2030 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901
2235 First Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901
1560 Matthew Dr, Suite E, Fort Myers, FL 33907-1702
1715 Monroe St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
2340 Periwinkle Way, Suite I-1, Sanibel, FL 33957
2400 First Street, Suite 300, Fort Myers, FL 33901
12140 Carissa Commerce Court, Suite 200, Fort Myers, FL 33966
9240 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Building C, Suite 1101, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
2320 First Street, Suite 1000, Fort Myers, FL 33901
PO Box 610, 2248 First Street, Fort Myers, FL 33902
5237 Summerlin Commons Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33907
8880 Gladiolus Dr, Suite 201, Fort Myers, FL 33908
6338 Presidential Court, Suite 104, Fort Myers, FL 33919
1708 Cape Coral Pkwy W, Suite 7, Cape Coral, FL 33914
Fort Myers Trust & Estate Information
Lead Counsel Verified Attorneys in Fort Myers
Lead Counsel independently verifies Trust & Estate attorneys in Fort Myers and checks their standing with Florida bar associations.
Our Verification Process and Criteria
Ample Experience
Attorneys must meet stringent qualifications and prove they practice in the area of law they’re verified in.
Good Standing
Be in good standing with their bar associations and maintain a clean disciplinary record.
Annual Review
Submit to an annual review to retain their Lead Counsel Verified status.
Client Commitment
Pledge to follow the highest quality client service and ethical standards.
What Is Estate Planning?
Estate planning involves preparing to transfer your assets after your death and protecting your rights if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. It includes creating documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to ensure that your property is distributed according to your wishes. Estate planning also covers issues like minimizing taxes, protecting beneficiaries, and managing health care decisions if you become incapacitated. The goal is to provide clear instructions and avoid legal complications for your loved ones.
What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need an Estate Planning Lawyer?
You might need an estate planning lawyer if you:
- Want to draft a will or set up a trust to manage your assets
- Have a large or complex estate and want to minimize taxes for your loved ones
- Own a business and want control to pass to the right person
- Have specific wishes for your health care that everyone must follow if you cannot communicate them yourself
- Need to plan for the care of your minor children
- Already have an estate plan but need to update it after a major life change like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child
How Can a Lawyer Help Me With Estate Planning?
Creating an estate plan is a detail-oriented process. A lawyer can ensure that your estate plan is legally sound and reflects your intentions. This will minimize the chance of disputes between your loved ones after you are gone, which can drain your estate of its value. They will:
- Ensure your assets go where you want them to go
- Identify potential problems and solutions
- Create documents that are legally binding and meet the requirements of Florida law
What Could Happen if I Don’t Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
If you don’t hire an estate planning lawyer, your documents might not meet legal requirements, causing your estate plan to be invalid. This could lead to your assets being distributed according to Florida law rather than your wishes. Without proper planning, your estate might face higher taxes and legal fees, reducing the amount left for your beneficiaries. Additionally, without a clear plan, your family could face disputes and legal challenges. A lawyer helps ensure your estate is managed smoothly and according to your wishes, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
What Questions Should I Ask When Trying To Find an Estate Planning Lawyer in Fort Myers?
These questions can help you decide if you feel comfortable and confident that a lawyer has the qualifications, experience, and ability to manage your case well. Many lawyers offer free consultations that allow you to understand your options and get specific legal advice before hiring them. The top questions to ask include:
- How have you handled cases like mine?
- What are the potential outcomes of my case?
- What is the timeline for completing my estate plan?
- What is your billing and fee structure?
- How long have you been practicing in Florida?
- What will my involvement be during the process?
Tips for Hiring an Estate Planning Lawyer
Finding a lawyer who is right for you and will represent your best interests is an essential first step in managing your defense and protecting your rights. Find a lawyer who understands your case, knows your needs and goals, and has the experience to get the best outcome. Things to do:
- Ask for recommendations
- Research lawyers online
- Schedule consultations
- Review experience and expertise
- Talk about billing and fees
- Trust your instincts