Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Florida, United States Attorneys in related practice areas.
Refine your search by selecting a city.
Private Client law in Florida encompasses a wide range of services tailored to individuals and families in the realm of personal legal affairs. These legal services often include estate planning, wills and trusts, probate, succession planning, guardianship, tax planning, asset protection, and elder law. The goal is to help individuals manage and transfer their wealth, protect their assets, and provide for future generations. Private Client attorneys work closely with clients to navigate complex legal issues and ensure their wishes are documented and carried out effectively in accordance with Florida law.
There are several common situations in which you might require the expertise of a Private Client lawyer in Florida:
Florida has unique laws that shape the practice of Private Client matters. The state operates under the Florida Probate Code, which governs the administration of estates. Florida recognizes both formal and summary probate administration, depending on the value and circumstances of the estate. Homestead laws in Florida provide strong protection for a primary residence, which has significant implications for estate planning and probate. Florida does not impose a state estate or inheritance tax, but federal tax laws may still apply.
Trusts are widely used in Florida for privacy and efficiency in passing assets. Florida also has specific statutes related to durable powers of attorney, avoiding probate, asset protection trusts, and elder law. Guardianship laws are strict and closely monitored by the courts to protect the interests of vulnerable individuals. Consulting a Private Client attorney ensures compliance with these local rules and optimizes estate and asset management.
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate, including validating their will, paying debts, and distributing assets. In Florida, probate can be formal or summary, depending on the estate’s size and complexity. It is important to ensure assets are distributed properly and legally.
Having a will in Florida is highly recommended. It allows you to clearly state how your property should be distributed, name guardians for minor children, and appoint a personal representative for your estate. Without a will, assets are divided according to state law, which may not reflect your intentions.
A trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee manages assets for beneficiaries. Many Floridians use trusts to avoid probate, ensure privacy, and provide more control over how and when beneficiaries receive assets. An attorney can help determine if a trust is suitable for your needs.
Florida does not impose a state estate or inheritance tax. However, federal estate tax may apply to very large estates. Tax planning with a Private Client lawyer can help minimize liability and maximize wealth preservation.
Florida’s homestead law protects a primary residence from most creditors and can impact how property is distributed after death. Special rules apply to spouses and minor children, making it critical to understand these protections during estate planning.
Asset protection strategies in Florida often involve the use of trusts, limited liability entities, and the state’s robust homestead exemption. A Private Client lawyer can tailor a plan to shield your assets within the bounds of the law.
A power of attorney allows someone you trust to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. In Florida, these documents must meet specific legal requirements to be valid and effective.
When someone dies intestate, or without a will, Florida’s intestacy laws determine how their assets are distributed. Typically, the estate is passed to closest living relatives according to statutory order, which may not align with the deceased’s wishes.
You can appoint guardians for your minor children in your will. A Private Client lawyer can guide you through the legal process to ensure your children are protected and cared for by someone you trust.
Guardianship is a court-supervised process where a responsible person is appointed to care for someone unable to manage their own affairs, such as a minor or incapacitated adult. Florida courts strictly manage guardianships to prevent abuse or exploitation.
For further guidance on Private Client issues in Florida, the following resources can be helpful:
If you are considering Private Client legal services in Florida, start by assessing your needs. Gather any relevant documentation, such as financial statements, property deeds, previous wills or trusts, and family information. Seek recommendations for qualified Private Client attorneys in your area or use the Florida Bar’s referral service. Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your goals and concerns. During your consultation, ask about experience with similar cases, the attorney’s approach, and estimated costs. Taking prompt action can provide peace of mind and ensure your legal affairs are in order under Florida law.
