Does Your Estate Plan Need A Spring Cleaning?

Spring is definitely here, and in addition to enjoying the warmer weather, sunshine, and longer days, many of us are also Spring cleaning. Deep cleaning our homes, checking our refrigerators and pantries for anything out of date, clearing out clothing that doesn’t fit anymore, weeding and removing yard debris, and adding new things that we need and enjoy is a process that just seems right for this season.

All of us are wise to also consider taking this practical approach of cleaning, clearing, and adding to with our Estate Plans. Just as we all tend to our homes and gardens, our current situations and our broader life issues often need tending to also. Often, just like Spring cleaning, we realize there are things we think are are outdated, need cleaning up or clearing out, or that we want to add to our Estate Planning goals.

By addressing life changes and practical concerns, such as protecting our families in the case of an emergency or death, and being proactive about planning for the need of long-term care though comprehensive Estate Planning, we can feel more at peace and positive about our current situations and our futures.

Addressing any changes or concerns you have about your and your family’s health, financial situation, and plans for the future through holistic Estate Planning is one of the most important and practical things you can do.

Our compassionate and caring Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorneys are here for you, and they are sensitive to you and your family’s needs and concerns.

If you need to initiate an Estate Planning review, or new Estate Planning case at this time, we are happy to assist you. Depending on your level of comfort and abilities, we can handle your initial intake or planning review consult by phone, video conference, or in person in most instances. We are also happy to conduct socially-distanced signings.

If it has been a while since you last updated your plan with our office, please remember that a review and update is typically needed:

1. If more than 3 years have passed since you signed your planning documents;

2. If new children have been born or adopted;

3. If your children have now become adults;

4. If you have become a grandparent;

5. If there has been a significant change in the value or composition of your planning assets;

6. If you have disposed of specific assets which were going to a named beneficiary;

7. If one or more of your named beneficiaries have deceased or are now under a disability;

8. If one or more of your named fiduciaries, agents, or surrogates have deceased, are now under a disability, or are no longer appropriate to serve for you;

9. If there have been significant tax law changes since you signed your plan; or

10. If there have been significant Florida law changes since you signed your plan.

Our Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorneys have the knowledge, experience, and empathy necessary to guide you in preparing a Will or Trust, or in legally representing you in a Probate or Trust Administration. If you have any concerns about Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney, Designation of Health Care Surrogate, or managing the costs of long-term care, please do not delay. Call us today at (904) 264-8800, and set up a phone, video, or in-person appointment today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate, and caring Elder Law Attorneys. With offices, located in Jacksonville, Orange Park, and St. Augustine we are here to help you and your loved ones have more peace of mind.

Grady and Alison, Attorneys

We are your Florida First Coast Elder Law Attorneys.