How to choose the best estate planning attorney in Jacksonville
Whether your loved one has an attorney or not, they can benefit from working alongside a professional estate planning lawyer who has experience and knowledge in this area. After you’ve selected a few options for an estate planning lawyer in Jacksonville, you’ll want to assess their capability. If they aren’t willing to provide references, they’re not the lawyer for your loved one. Ask questions about their specific experience with drafting wills and planning for estates as well.
When you’re shopping around for an attorney, keep your loved one’s budget in mind. Prices can vary quite a bit, depending on the complexity of your loved one’s estate. Forbes revealed that the average cost of a basic will is around $100. In addition to considering their budget, you’ll want to consider how well the senior in your life can engage with prospective attorneys. They will work together for a while, so it’s important to have a good relationship.
Facts and trends in Jacksonville estate planning
How many seniors in Jacksonville are participating in estate planning?
Without a will in place, your loved one’s estate will be divided based on a local judge and state laws, which can prompt issues for family members as judges won’t necessarily distribute things the way your aging friend or relative would have. The IRS revealed the number of seniors in Florida who participate in estate planning:
Number of Returns Filed for Complex Trust | Number of Returns filed for Simple Trust |
---|---|
83,935 | 47,314 |
With more than 4.5 million seniors over the age of 65 living in Florida, the number of those who have filed for complex and simple trusts is low. Seasons strives to shore up those numbers by helping families connect with an experienced Jacksonville estate planning attorney who can guide them through the process of drafting a will.
What should caregivers in Jacksonville know about the prevalence of advanced directives?
One important thing that an estate planning attorney in Jacksonville can help with is drawing up advanced directives. Your family can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly who has the power to make medical decisions for the senior in your life. The below chart indicates the number of Americans who have advanced directives, according to Reuters Health in 2017.
Americans with Advanced Directives for End-of-Life Care
Americans with Advanced Directives for End-of-Life Care Over Age 65
Americans with Advanced Directives for End-of-Life Care Currently in a Nursing Home
While 81 percent of Americans who have advanced directives are over the age of 65, there are still many seniors who don’t have these legal documents drawn up, which can ensure that their wishes regarding their health are carried out during emergencies. Whether your loved one is aging in place or in a residential community, they can receive many benefits from estate planning services.
What are the benefits of working with an estate planning law firm in Jacksonville?
By working with a Jacksonville estate planning attorney, your loved one can clearly spell out how they want their property to be distributed upon their death. They can arrange to make donations to charitable organizations and causes that matter to them, as well as bestow heirlooms or special items upon their loved ones. With a will in place, you can avoid family conflicts that can arise during times of uncertainty, as well as speed up the probate process. If your loved one wants to make any changes to their will, they can contact their attorney to quickly add or remove beneficiaries as desired.
Estate planning solutions for Jacksonville seniors
When your loved one is ready to work with an estate planning attorney, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the free resources at Seasons. We understand the challenges your family faces during the aging process. Start browsing our comprehensive list of reviews for the estate planning services in Jacksonville to get started right away.