A will does more than distribute property—it gives clear instructions about how you want your affairs handled when you’re gone. A valid will ensures your assets are passed on according to your wishes, not the state’s default rules in Florida. Without one, the court decides who inherits what, which can delay the process and create unnecessary conflict among your loved ones.

Florida has specific legal requirements for wills. Informal notes, verbal promises, or handwritten documents usually aren’t enough. A will must follow the correct format, include the proper signatures, and clearly express your intentions to be valid. Even a small mistake can lead to confusion or disputes during probate without careful planning.

At Aventus Law Group, we help clients across Central Florida create wills that meet legal standards and reflect their long-term goals. Whether you’re planning for personal assets, family needs, or business succession, we ensure your will fits your circumstances and holds up in court when it matters most.

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Everything You Need to Know About Wills in Florida

A will, or “last will and testament,” outlines what happens to your assets after death. It also lets you name someone to manage your estate and appoint a guardian if you have minor children. If you don’t make these decisions in advance, Florida courts will do it based on statute, not personal knowledge of your family dynamics or preferences.

What Makes a Will Valid in Florida

To create a legally enforceable will in Florida, you must be 18 or older and mentally capable of making decisions. The will must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two people. Some electronic wills are valid if they meet state rules, but traditional execution is still the most common. We ensure everything is completed correctly so your wishes are documented and respected.

What You Can Address in a Will

Wills can cover a wide range of personal and financial matters. These typically include naming beneficiaries for property and accounts, appointing someone to administer your estate, selecting guardians for minor children, and outlining charitable gifts or plans for a family business.

Keep in mind that not all assets are handled through a will. Life insurance, retirement accounts, and jointly owned property often pass outside of it. We help ensure your will and other estate documents work together to prevent overlap or unintended outcomes.

Keeping Your Will Up to Date

Significant life changes—like marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or acquiring new assets—often require updates to your will. In Florida, you can revise your will with a codicil or draft a new one entirely. We regularly assist clients in reviewing and updating their documents to reflect their current intentions and avoid gaps in protection.

Why Precision Matters When Drafting a Will

Vague language, missing provisions, or outdated instructions can create problems during probate. We often see issues arise when a will hasn’t been updated to reflect changes in a person’s family, finances, or business holdings. Coordination with other documents, like trusts, deeds, or beneficiary forms, is essential. Working with our wills attorney helps ensure your will is written, legally enforceable, and tailored to your needs.