Heidi Webb is a very professional and caring attorney. She is focused on attention to detail. She also is very articulate. Every situation that has come up in my case she has taken care of as swift as possible. My case has had some difficult turns which she has dealt with to her sensational ability. Heidi Webb has an outstanding personality and puts you at ease immediately. I highly recommend her. It is nice to know that out of so my attorneys their is one that is exceptional.

~ Rita S.

What a wonderful, professional Attorney my family and I found in Heidi Webb! For years, we put off creating a formal will and medical directives, but COVID-19 was the wake up we needed. I knew that we could no longer procrastinate. I searched around town and made a few phone calls and decided on Heidi’s firm. Everything went smoothly. In our first phone conversation, she shared valuable information about things that I never knew or considered. I really appreciated the advice. Her assistant, Molly was also very helpful. Heidi provided all the forms we needed to protect our family and property as well as our medical wishes. The process did not take long and was done via telephone, email, mail, and video conferencing. We could have gone into her office to complete the process, but we chose to use these methods due to COVID-19 restrictions. I am so thankful to Heidi and her team for their help getting things in order for our family. I consider her to be trustworthy and highly ethical. Based on our experience with Heidi and her team, I also consider her to be warm and welcoming with all varying types of people and cultures. Thanks again Heidi and Team!

~ Cecile B

8 Reasons Why Newcomers to Florida Should Update Their Estate Plans

Relocating to Florida promises sunnier skies and a new lifestyle but also introduces several legal nuances, especially in the realm of estate planning. It’s imperative for newcomers to Florida to update or establish their estate plan upon moving to ensure it reflects their current needs and complies with Florida’s Laws. Here are eight reasons why it’s vital for new Florida residents to update their estate plans according to our state’s specific laws and regulations.

1. Navigating Florida Law

Each state in the U.S. has its own estate planning laws, and Florida is no exception, with specific rules regarding wills, trusts, probate, and more. Consulting with a knowledgeable Florida estate planning attorney to understand these laws is essential to ensure your estate plan is effective and enforceable.

2. Maximizing the Homestead Exemption

Florida’s homestead exemption offers robust protection for your primary residence, which can lead to reduced property taxes and increased creditor protection. Updating your estate plan can help you fully leverage these benefits.

3. Understanding Property Ownership

Unlike some states that use community property laws, Florida employs a common law system that affects asset ownership and inheritance. It’s important to discuss these differences with your estate planning attorney to ensure your assets are distributed according to your intentions.

4. Streamlining the Probate Process

The probate process in Florida comes with its own set of complexities. An updated estate plan can simplify or even bypass the probate process, potentially saving your heirs time, money, and stress.

5. Leveraging State Tax Advantages

Florida does not impose a state estate tax, which could be beneficial if you’re moving from a state with such a tax. Updating your plan could reduce the overall tax burden on your estate.

6. Updating Healthcare Directives

It’s crucial to establish or revise your healthcare directives, like Health Care Surrogate Designations and living wills, to ensure that your healthcare preferences are respected and that designated individuals can act on your behalf if necessary.

7. Revising Beneficiary Designations

A move can also affect your relationships and financial goals. It’s important to review and update your beneficiary designations on policies and accounts to ensure they remain aligned with your current wishes.

8. Connecting with Local Legal Experts

Building a relationship with a local estate planning attorney is invaluable. They can provide tailored advice and ensure your estate plan aligns perfectly with your new circumstances in Florida.

Moving to Florida is an exciting new chapter that requires careful legal consideration, especially concerning estate planning. This is why newcomers to Florida should update their estate plans to align the plan with Florida’s specific requirements and regulations; you can protect your assets and ensure your loved ones are cared for according to your wishes.

Heidi S. Webb, Attorney at Law, serves clients in Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach, Port Orange, and beyond with matters of Estate Planning and Probate. Contact her today to schedule a free consultation. Visit her page on Facebook, or see what her clients are saying to learn more about Heidi.

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