Your Florida Estate Planning Specialist
Hello, my name is Paul James Monsanto.
I understand that your money and other Estate assets are the result of sacrifice, hard work and smart decisions. By visiting this website, you are making another smart decision.
This website contains useful information related to Estate Planning, including all the ways I can help, as well as information about my background and professional experience.
When you work with me, you are working with an attorney that is committed to the values of clarity, responsibility and sound judgment. I am dedicated to designing Estate Plans that are tailored to my clients’ specific needs. I take great pleasure and satisfaction from helping my clients ensure a better future for their loved ones.
Who Needs An Estate Plan?
The short answer is: EVERYONE.
But, don’t just take my word for it. That is according to AARP.
Here are just a few of the reasons you should create an Estate Plan:
1. You choose how your property will be distributed and to whom.
If you pass away without a Last Will and Testament, the Court will decide for you in a way that you may not have agreed with. This is especially true if you are in a marriage involving children from a previous relationship, you wish to leave an inheritance for your grandchildren, or to someone else outside of your immediate family, such as a cherished friend.
2. You choose who will wind up the affairs of your Estate.
Personal representatives make sure all your affairs are in order, including paying off bills, canceling your credit cards, and notifying the bank and handling other business related to your Estate. Because your personal representative plays such an important role, you’ll want to be sure to appoint someone you know to be honest, trustworthy, and organized.
3. You choose who can make decisions about your finances and health if you ever become incapacitated.
With people living longer, it is essential that you prepare for the possibility that you may be unable to make important decisions for yourself one day. By making a Durable Power of Attorney and Living Will with a Designation of Health Care Surrogate, you can choose who will make these decisions for you.
4. You will save your family time and money in long run.
Failing to make a proper Estate Plan make things expensive and complicated if you become incapacitated or pass away. For example, your Estate may be subject to a longer, more costly probate process without a Will. Litigation can arise between family members as to who is entitled to your assets. Your spouse or children may have to go to court to appoint a legal guardian to take care of you and your affairs if you become unable to do so. These are just a few of the bad outcomes that can happen if you do not have a proper Estate Plan.
5. You can take care of vulnerable loved ones.
With an Estate Plan, you can appoint a guardian and provide for a minor or disabled child. You can create a Trust for the benefit of a loved one who is not good at managing their money. You can even structure an inheritance to a spouse or disabled child in such a way that they will not lose their needs-based government benefits, such as Medicaid or SSI.
Now that you know why you need an Estate Plan, don’t put it off any longer.
And, explore the links below for answers to other questions frequently asked by my clients about Estate Planning.
