The Villages Wills & Trusts Attorney

Introduction to Our Services in Central Florida

At Marshall Law, we understand that effective estate planning is about more than documents—it’s about protecting your legacy and your loved ones. We provide comprehensive, personalized estate planning services to individuals and families in The Villages, Wildwood, and surrounding Central Florida communities. We offer trusted guidance in all aspects of estate planning, including business succession, guardianships, and trust administration, ensuring your plan meets both your current needs and long-term goals.

The probate and trust administration process can be stressful and confusing. That’s why we help clients navigate probate and trust administration with clarity and compassion, making sure their loved one’s wishes are honored and assets are preserved. Whether you need a last will and testament, a revocable living trust, or advance directives such as a living will or designation of health care surrogate, Marshall Law is committed to providing the peace of mind that comes with a well-prepared plan.

While many law firms offer estate planning, Marshall Law stands apart through our personal attention, client relationships, and attention to detail. A sound estate plan goes beyond asset distribution—it can also involve tax planning, Medicaid eligibility, elder law protections, and more. We are equipped to address all of these concerns with care and professionalism.

Whether you’re planning to protect your family’s wealth, care for a child with special needs, or prepare for the future, our legal team will help you put the right tools in place. During your initial consultation, we take time to understand your unique needs and design a plan that reflects your priorities—whether that involves wills, trusts, or both.

The Importance of Wills and Trusts In Estate Planning

Without a valid will or trust, Florida law determines how your assets are distributed after death, which may not align with your wishes. The Florida Probate Code governs this default distribution and can result in outcomes you would not have intended. That’s why it’s critical to have a well-crafted estate plan that clearly communicates your preferences.

Why a Will Matters

A last will and testament allows you to direct how your property should be distributed and name a personal representative to manage the administration of your estate. It also provides instructions on how debts and expenses should be handled. In Florida, wills must go through the probate process under the supervision of the court, which ensures that your estate is managed according to your instructions.

One of the greatest benefits of having a will is that it lets you—not the state—decide how your assets are passed down. This can help prevent disputes, protect your beneficiaries, and provide a clearer path forward for your loved ones.

Why Trusts Are an Effective Estate Planning Tool

A revocable living trust is a private, flexible tool for managing your estate. Unlike a will, a trust allows for the distribution of your assets without court involvement, which can save time, reduce costs, and maintain privacy for your family. A trustee manages the trust assets and follows your instructions, both during your lifetime and after your passing.

Trusts can be tailored to your unique needs and goals. In addition to revocable living trusts, we assist clients with:

Special Needs Trusts – Designed to provide for loved ones with disabilities without jeopardizing eligibility for government assistance.

Land Trusts – Used to hold title to real property while maintaining the owner’s privacy in public records.

Irrevocable Trusts – Often used for asset protection, tax planning, or to meet specific legal or financial objectives. These trusts, once created, cannot be changed by the grantor.

FAQ: Florida Wills

The answers to these frequently asked questions can offer clarity about your estate plan, and the strength and efficacy of your will by ensuring all your questions are adequately answered. We encourage you to talk openly with our attorneys to discuss your estate planning needs and concerns. Reach out to my office for answers to your specific questions and concerns.