Many people often wonder when they should consult an estate planning attorney in Tampa. The answer is simple: you should consult an estate planning attorney as soon as possible, especially if you have assets, property, or family members to care for. Estate planning is an essential aspect of life that ensures that your loved ones are protected and your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. 

Michelangelo Mortellaro is a top estate planning attorney in Tampa who can help you create the best estate plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. You are never too young to begin planning for the future, as we are all on the same journey toward old age and eventual death. Learn more about estate planning and when it’s time to consult with an estate planning attorney in Tampa. 

What is Your Estate? 

Far too many Florida residents believe an estate is large holdings of property like huge mansions on the coast, rare automobiles, exquisite jewelry and art, and enormous bank accounts. Your estate is simply all the property and assets you own. If you have a checking account, you have an estate. Most people own a home and at least one vehicle, have a few investments like life insurance or retirement accounts, and possess various items of personal property. This is your estate. 

Estate planning creates an advance plan for what is to happen to your estate when you die. You can decide now how you want your real estate, personal property, financial accounts, investments, and more distributed after your death. You can also arrange to shelter assets in the event you need long-term care. 

Reasons to Consult an Estate Planning Attorney in Tampa

Here are some of the top reasons you need to consult an estate planning attorney in Tampa:

You Have a Family

If you have a family, you need to consult an estate planning attorney in Tampa to ensure that your loved ones are protected. You need to plan for what will happen to your children if you pass away and designate a guardian to take care of them. You may also need to make advance preparations to continue care for a special needs child or family member. An estate planning attorney can help you create a will, designate beneficiaries, and establish trusts to protect your family’s financial future.

You Have Assets or Property | Estate Planning Attorney in Tampa

If you have assets or property, you need to consult an estate planning attorney in Tampa to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. Estate planning attorneys can help you create a plan that will minimize the taxes that your estate will have to pay, protect your assets from creditors, and ensure that your assets are distributed to the right beneficiaries.

You Want to Avoid Probate

Probate is a legal process that occurs after someone passes away. It involves proving the validity of a will, paying off any debts or taxes owed, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries. Probate can be a lengthy and costly process that can tie up your assets for months or even years. An estate planning attorney can help you create a plan that will avoid probate and ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

You Want to Plan for Incapacity | Estate Planning Attorney in Tampa

If you become incapacitated due to an illness or accident, you may not be able to make decisions about your health care or finances. An estate planning attorney can help you create a set of Advance Directives that outline the care you wish to receive and avoid, and that designates a trusted person to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

You Want to Protect Your Business

If you own a business, you need to consult an estate planning attorney in Tampa to ensure that your business is protected after your death. An estate planning attorney can help you create a plan that will ensure that your business continues to operate smoothly and that your employees are taken care of after your death.

Am I Too Old for Estate Planning?

Many people wonder if they are now too old for effective estate planning. Michelangelo Mortellaro of Mortellaro Law says NO! He is an experienced Florida Elder Law Attorney who can help even those nearing retirement age build a solid plan for the future. Elder estate planning is somewhat different than estate planning for younger clients, so contact us for your free consultation about getting started with estate planning no matter what your age! 

The Future Begins Today! | Estate Planning Attorney in Tampa

Consulting an estate planning attorney in Tampa is essential to ensure that your loved ones are protected, your assets are distributed according to your wishes, and your business is protected after your death. Michelangelo Mortellaro of Mortellaro Law can help you create a plan that will give you peace of mind and protect your family’s future. Contact Moretellaro Law in Tampa today to schedule a FREE consultation and start planning for your future.