A commonly asked question in estate planning is, ‘How much does a will cost in Florida?’ It’s a difficult question to answer, though. There are many variables that go into the cost of a will. An estate planning lawyer’s fees would be directly affected by the complexity of the estate or the assets involved. At Pathway Law, P.A., we can discuss potential costs with you.
Influential Factors in the Cost of a Will in Florida
Estate planning is an important part of any responsible adult’s finances. It secures the future of your assets and the well-being of your beneficiaries. However, many people think creating a will is too costly an expense. In many cases, it is more affordable than you might think. The following are some factors that influence the cost of a will:
- Lower-priced services include those that are very simple and do not require a lot of time from a Florida wills attorney. Examples include wills with no trusts that can be structured within a basic template with very few adjustments needed.
- Wills that involve more complexities, like a guardian for children, a spouse, significant assets, and perhaps a simple business interest, for example, will likely cost more.
- Full estate planning that involves a will, trusts, powers of attorney, and complicated assets and distributions will likely cost more.
The median household income in Florida is around $71,711, which implies that the average Floridian could benefit greatly from creating a will to ensure their assets are managed and distributed properly. The price of having a will that is seamless and can withstand changes in laws and court proceedings is well worth the minimal cost the testator (the creator of the will) will incur.
Be wary of free or cheap will services that involve a template or form to fill out. These types of documents are likely to have holes that leave the will vulnerable to disputes. Wills composed online can easily be contested and found to be invalid. You have worked hard for your assets, so you should protect them with a legally sound and solid will.
Do You Need to Hire a Will Lawyer?
There are some benefits to hiring a will lawyer to help you draft your will. A will lawyer knows the law and can apply it to your case to keep your assets safe and protect your beneficiaries. When a will goes through probate, there is the opportunity for anyone to contest its contents. When you have a lawyer help write your will, you ensure its compliance with state laws to protect your wishes from being disputed.
Another good reason to have a lawyer write your will or review your draft is to avoid confusion during the process of distributing assets. There are specific requirements and steps that must be taken before, during, and after probate. You can minimize the risk of errors in any of these stages of asset handling.
In many cases involving the creation of a will, an attorney can offer valuable advice on how to word and structure your will so that your wishes are upheld after you’re gone.
Why Choose Us?
Pathway Law, P.A., knows the local community and understands the needs of Florida residents. We aim to make sure all of our clients understand the laws that apply to their estate planning cases. When you choose us, you can be sure your will is a solid and withstanding representation of your last wishes for your estate following your passing.
Don’t take a risk with discounted or free will services. Choose an established Florida estate planning law firm like us. We can ensure you are comfortable sharing information about your family and assets, and we can answer all of your questions.
FAQs
Do I Need to Hire a Will Lawyer in Florida?
You may need to hire a will lawyer if you have a complex estate with complicated assets, such as a business, out-of-state real estate, or property in another country. If your assets are straightforward, you may feel you do not need a lawyer. However, it is in your and your beneficiaries’ interests to have a lawyer advise you on the validity of your will and legal compliance. A lawyer can help you avoid issues in probate and disputes later on.
How Much Does a Lawyer Charge for a Will in Florida?
The price a lawyer charges for a will in Florida depends on a variety of factors. If the will is straightforward and uncomplicated with minimal assets, the cost of a lawyer can be much cheaper than for an estate that involves complex assets. If a will is a part of a more comprehensive estate plan, you may pay more. Some lawyers charge a flat fee, while others charge an hourly rate, which can also affect the overall price.
What Is the Cheapest Way to Draft a Will?
The cheapest way to draft a will is to use a free service. Anyone can create a will if it meets Florida’s legal requirements, including being signed by the testator and two witnesses. However, without a lawyer’s review of the will, there is no guarantee it will hold up in probate court. There are many options for free wills, but these don’t guarantee compliance and may not meet all the needs of the testator. This leaves room for individuals to contest a will or deem it invalid.
What Is Better in Florida, a Will or a Trust?
Neither a will nor a trust is better than the other in Florida. Each tool has its pros and cons, and most people’s situation will lend better to one or the other, or both. For example, for a high-profile individual or family, a trust may be better for protecting their personal and financial information because it does not go through probate. A will, on the other hand, becomes public record after it goes through probate, but it is a much cheaper and low-maintenance option.
A Practical Florida Wills Attorney With Creative Solutions
If you need a will, Pathway Law, P.A., is dedicated to providing smart counsel to all of our estate planning clients, no matter what their situation. We can take on any challenge. Our firm operates on a distinguished air of experience, service, and attention to detail. Contact our office to learn more and experience our estate planning services for yourself.