Estate Planning and Probate Administration

At Mathison Whittles, LLP we offer our clients individually tailored estate planning advice to help secure your legacy.  We counsel clients on all aspects of trusts and estate issues, including: 

  • Wills Drafting

  • Living Wills

  • Living Trusts 

  • Guardianships 

  • Estate Planning 

  • Estate Tax Issues 

  • Choosing the Appropriate Personal Representative or Trustee

Wills Drafting :

Your last will ensures that your intentions are honored and provides the opportunity to distribute your property, establish care for your children and otherwise express your wishes upon your death. A will is necessary if you intend to leave property to a person or entity other than a blood relative, such as a domestic partner, a friend or a charity. If you die without a will, the court determines how your property is distributed, who cares for your children and even what happens to your pet – making decisions that might not reflect your desires. 

Living Wills:

Your living will sets the parameters for medical intervention should you become incapacitated, assuring that when you are most vulnerable, your wishes will be honored. 

We know our clients work hard and want to provide for the long-term well-being and financial security of their families. We develop a plan for:

  • Transferring Assets 

  • Minimizing Taxes 

  • Establishing Guardianship for Children 

  • Caring for Pets 

  • Supporting Personal Philanthropic Causes 

  • Planning for Future Medical Care  

We provide guidance and support through the complex probate process, including: 

  • Filing the Will With the Appropriate Florida County Probate Court 

  • Finding and Collecting Assets 

  • Closing and Opening Bank Accounts

  • Minimizing Estate Tax Liability

  • Valuing, Managing, Preserving and Liquidating the Estate 

  • Locating Beneficiaries  

We know that even for seemingly straightforward estates, disputes between beneficiaries sometimes arise. Our established and respected courtroom presence can calm the emotionally charged process of probating a challenged will or disputed executor or judicial decision. When it is in the best interest of our clients to preserve cordial familial relationships, we are adept at mediating and facilitating resolution of disputes.