Frequently Asked Questions

Having a Will means that my family is able to avoid probate, right?

What are POD/TOD designations?

How can I allow someone access to my accounts without naming them as a joint owner?

Are the Will and associated documents I drafted in another state valid in Florida?

If Florida is your state of residence, and where your Will ultimately will be probated, it is a good idea to have your Will reviewed by a Florida attorney. Florida laws governing execution are generally more stringent than other states. Article IV, Section 1 of the United States Constitution, the Full Faith and Credit clause, addresses the duties that states within the United States have to respect the “public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other state.” This means that documents executed in accordance with the formalities of the state where the documents were drafted, must be recognized in Florida as valid.

While the Will may be valid, Florida courts may still require the attorney administering the estate to file additional documentation to satisfy Florida requirements, if the execution of the documents was not in conformance with Florida requirements.

For powers of attorney lacking execution before two witnesses and a notary public, and executed in a state other than Florida, financial institutions may require that the principal furnish an “opinion of counsel,” from an attorney licensed in the state where the documents were drafted. The opinion of counsel is provided at yours or your agent’s expense. Said opinion of counsel letter will address any matter of law concerning the power of attorney, including the due execution and validity of the power of attorney. A financial institution may reject a power of attorney if the principal or agent do not provide the requested opinion of counsel.

Should you desire to make any substantive changes to your estate planning documents, or have your documents reviewed, please contact our office.