Planning for the possibility of incapacity is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and your future. In Florida, two common legal mechanisms help ensure your affairs are handled if you’re unable to manage them yourself: the Durable Power of Attorney (POA) and Guardianship. While both options allow someone … Read more
Estate planning is not just for the wealthy or elderly. It is one of the most important steps any Florida resident can take to protect their loved ones, preserve their legacy, and prevent unnecessary legal complications after death. If you have ever asked yourself, “Do I really need a will?” the answer is very likely … Read more
June and July mark the halfway point of the year—a perfect time to take a step back and assess your legal and financial health. Just like an annual medical checkup, a mid-year legal review ensures your personal, family, and financial affairs are in order and aligned with your goals. In Florida, where laws surrounding estate … Read more
The 4th of July is often celebrated with fireworks, parades, and backyard barbecues—but its deeper meaning is rooted in the foundations of American law and liberty. At The DeVries Law Firm, we believe that understanding the historical significance of Independence Day helps illuminate the legal rights and freedoms we fight to protect every day. In … Read more
Turning 40 might feel like a milestone filled with career goals, family planning, or financial milestones—but there’s one crucial area many adults overlook: essential legal documents before 40 in Florida. Life can change in an instant, and without the right legal protections in place, you (and your loved ones) could be left unprepared. At The … Read more
As parents, you spend countless hours making sure your children are safe, loved, and prepared for life’s challenges. Yet many Florida families overlook one of the most critical parts of protecting their children — legal guardianship planning. Have you ever asked yourself: What happens to my kids if something happens to me? It’s a tough … Read more
When planning your estate, one of the most common concerns is: “Can someone challenge my will in Florida?” Unfortunately, the answer is yes—under certain conditions, a will can be contested. However, there are effective ways to reduce the risk and prevent will contests before they begin. Who Can Contest a Will in Florida? Anyone who … Read more
Estate planning is a crucial step in protecting your assets, securing your family’s financial future, and avoiding unnecessary legal hurdles. Many Florida residents assume that having a simple will is enough, but this common misconception can lead to significant financial and legal complications. If you want to safeguard your loved ones from excessive court costs, … Read more
In the intricate tapestry of life, legal challenges can emerge unexpectedly, casting shadows over our personal and professional journeys. Whether it’s the financial burden of insurmountable debt, the emotional turmoil of family disputes, or the responsibility of securing a legacy for loved ones, these challenges require not just legal expertise but also a compassionate hand … Read more
When it comes to wills and trusts, there are many common misconceptions that people have. These misconceptions can lead to problems down the road, so it’s important to be aware of them and to make sure that you have the correct information. One of the most common misconceptions about wills is that they are only … Read more
Estate planning is vital for everyone, but it is crucial for millennials. Why? Because many millennials are just starting their careers and have young families. They need to make sure they have a plan if something happens to them. This guide will provide information on estate planning for millennials in Florida. What is Estate planning? … Read more
What is a Trust? A trust is a legally enforceable document that can be used to hold and manage assets. The trustee is an individual or entity that manages the trust, and the beneficiaries are the people who benefit from the trust. The trustee has a fiduciary duty to the beneficiaries, which means they must … Read more
The fear of death is why many Americans do not have a last will and testament. The idea of writing a will is gloomy and even a bit scary. Nonetheless, a will is a great way to manage finances and protect one’s family in the event of death. Beyond the fear of death, some people … Read more
An estate plan usually comprises a set of documents that address different circumstances. Your specific situation will determine whether you need one estate planning document or all of them. While you may already have one component in place, such as a will, it may not be sufficient to guarantee that all of your intentions are … Read more
Many people do not create a living will for several reasons. For starters, some people believe they are too young to need one. Also, some people do not know enough about the purpose of a living will and aren’t curious enough to find out. Finally, some people do not wish to think about end-of-life issues. … Read more
Most people have probably never considered designating a power of attorney to act on their behalf in an emergency. Naming a Power of Attorney (POA) might make some people feel a little uneasy because of the responsibilities entailed. However, choosing a POA can help you ensure that there’s someone who takes your place if you … Read more