Florida Estate Planning
Protect Your Family's Future with a Florida Estate Plan
Whether you're welcoming a child, purchasing a home, getting married, planning for retirement, or simply preparing for the future, estate planning can help protect the people and assets that matter most.
Free Florida Life Changes Planning Guide
A practical guide to reviewing your plan through every major life change.
Download the Free GuideThe Foundation of a Plan
What a Florida Estate Plan Can Help You Do
A well-prepared plan is built around the people and priorities in your life.
Protect Your Loved Ones
Document how you want your family and dependents cared for.
Create a Clear Estate Plan
Put your wishes in writing so your intentions are clearly recorded.
Reduce Future Family Conflict
A documented plan can help minimize confusion among loved ones.
Plan for Incapacity
Prepare documents that address decision-making if you're unable to act.
Protect Your Home
Address how your property and assets may be handled over time.
Keep Your Wishes Documented
Maintain a clear, accessible record of your healthcare and asset wishes.
Plan for Future Generations
Consider how your plan may support the people who come after you.
Why Now
Why Estate Planning Often Gets Delayed
Many families intend to put a plan in place, then set the idea aside amid the demands of daily life. Estate planning documents are sometimes viewed as something to handle "someday," until a life change makes the need for a plan more apparent.
A new child, a marriage, a home purchase, or caring for an aging parent are common moments when families revisit their plans. These transitions can be a natural point to review your documents, or to put a plan in place for the first time.
Moments Worth a Review
- A birth, adoption, or new grandchild
- Marriage, divorce, or blending a family
- Buying or selling a home
- Caring for an aging parent
- Approaching retirement
- It has simply been a while since your last review
Founding Attorney
Meet Shawn A. DeVries, J.D., M.B.A.
I had always had a fascination with the law, so I eventually relocated to Jacksonville where I enrolled in the Florida Coastal School of Law.
Once I had earned my J.D., I decided to create a new law firm that would be based on principles I learned from the hospitality industry. Unlike other firms, The DeVries Law Firm, P.A. would serve not clients but guests.
Complimentary Resource
Get Your FREE Florida Life Changes Planning Guide
This guide walks through the major life changes that often call for a fresh look at your estate plan, so you know what to consider and when to revisit your documents.
From Our Guests
What Families Are Saying
"Creating our Will and Trust was simple thanks to Shawn's knowledge and attention to detail."
"Julienne patiently explained everything and taught me things I never knew about estate planning."
"Professional, knowledgeable and friendly. The entire process was explained clearly from beginning to end."
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an estate plan if I already have a Will?
A Will is one part of a complete plan. Depending on your circumstances, additional documents such as a trust, durable power of attorney, or healthcare directive may help address other aspects of your affairs. A consultation can help identify what may be appropriate for your situation.
When should I update my estate plan?
Many people review their plan after a major life change, such as a marriage, divorce, birth, home purchase, or the loss of a loved one. Periodic review is also common practice even without a specific triggering event.
Can estate planning help protect my family?
Estate planning documents are designed to help communicate your wishes regarding your assets, dependents, and healthcare decisions. Every situation is different, and an attorney can discuss options that may be relevant to your family.
What happens if I die without an estate plan?
Without a plan, Florida's intestacy laws determine how assets are distributed, which may not reflect your personal wishes. This process can also take additional time and involve the probate court.
Can I discuss my situation during a consultation?
Yes. A consultation is an opportunity to discuss your circumstances and ask questions. Information shared on this page is general in nature and not a substitute for individual legal advice.
How long does estate planning usually take?
Timelines vary based on the complexity of your situation and the documents involved. Many plans can be completed in a matter of weeks once your goals and information are gathered.
Worth Watching
What Happens If You Die Without a Plan? (It's Not Good)
Ready to Protect Your Family's Future?
Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals, or download the free guide to start planning at your own pace.
Information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Viewing this page, downloading materials, or contacting The DeVries Law Firm, P.A. does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal matter is unique, and you should consult an attorney regarding your specific circumstances.