Estate Planning
MDM Legal, pllc is experienced with counseling our clients on the documents needed to plan for the future. We thoughtfully consider all concerns regarding assets, family heirlooms and keepsakes, and health interests. During our detailed consultation, we will discuss the options available to you so you can make the best decision. Once we have completed your estate plan, you will have confidence that your loved ones know your wishes and that you and your family are well protected. Book a consultation with our trusted team to assist you in all your estate planning needs.
Advanced Directives
Designation of Health Care Surrogate
A Designation of Healthcare Surrogate is a legal declaration appointing another person to make medical decisions for you when you have become legally incompetent or incapacitated. The surrogate has authority to consult with doctors and give consent for the performance of medical procedures that your surrogate believes you would agree to under the circumstances.
Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney is a legal instrument that allows you to designate a trusted person or corporation to handle your affairs. A Power of Attorney may be used to grant authority to that trusted person or corporations to complete specific responsibilities with your best interests in mind. A Power of Attorney can allow that trusted person or corporation to make health care decisions, financial decision, and/or provide them with authority to conduct transactions on your behalf.
If you do not wish to grant a trusted person or corporation full authority, a limited Power of Attorney or a General Power of Attorney may be a better solution. A Limited Power of Attorney grants your trusted person or corporation to complete one task, such as a home sale.
A General Power of Attorney grants your trusted person or corporation authority to handle a variety of specific named tasks, such as paying bills, investing money, or selling real or personal property.
Finally, a Durable Power of Attorney grants your trust person or corporation the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
Living Will
A Living Will is a formal declaration to doctors, other medical professionals and family members letting them know your wishes when you have a terminal condition or become incapacitated. Specifically, this document relates to the use of feeding tubes, respirators, and other life-prolonging procedures in the event that you have a terminal condition or become incapacitated.
Trusts
Revocable Living Trust
In Florida, using a living trust, also known as a Revocable Living Trust, is one of the primary ways to avoid probate. A Revocable Living Trust allows you to transfer assets, which you control, to a trust. While you are alive, you may change the trust. Upon your death, the assets in the trust will be distributed to your beneficiaries upon your death. The manner of distribution is controlled by the terms of the trust.
Last Will & Testament (Will)
A Last Will & Testament provides instructions to your loved ones on how you would like your assets distributed upon your death. Upon your death an inventory of all your assets subject to the Will will be conducted. With the help of a probate lawyer, your trusted personal representative will negotiate any valid outstanding debts and will make appropriate distributions of your property.