THE SOTO LAW OFFICE, P.A.

At The Soto Law Office, we are often asked what to do when someone passes away and you discover their original Last Will and Testament. It can be an emotional and confusing time, and knowing your legal obligations is essential to avoid serious consequences. Let’s consider a fictitious example. A Florida Example Imagine Robert and Elena, a couple who lived together in Orlando for 20 years but never married. Robert owned their home in his name only, as he purchased it long befo

Florida has been a leader in modernizing estate planning. With the adoption of Florida Statute §732.521–732.525, the state became one of the first in the country to recognize electronic   wills. These laws provide Floridians with an alternative to the traditional pen-and-paper approach to estate planning. While electronic wills offer convenience and accessibility, they also come with unique requirements—particularly around who can safeguard them. One of the most important asp

When it comes to estate planning, we frequently hear from well-meaning adult children who want to help their aging parents “get their affairs in order.” While their intentions are usually rooted in love and concern, Florida law places clear boundaries around who can make these decisions and how the legal process should unfold. It’s important to understand that estate planning is not something one person can do on behalf of another, unless proper legal authority has been grant

A thoughtful estate plan can become a source of disappointment if it isn’t kept up to date. In Florida, the legal principle of ademption means that if a specific gift—like a treasured piano—is no longer owned at death, the intended recipient may get nothing. Here’s how to protect your legacy and prevent loved ones from opening an “empty box.”

Napoleon Bonaparte’s will offers more than historical intrigue—it highlights a vital truth about estate planning: the original document matters. In Florida, probating a copy of a will can be complicated and costly. Learn why keeping your original will safe is key—and how The Soto Law Office can help.

Many clients begin their estate planning conversations by saying, “My situation is pretty simple.” But as we’ve seen at The Soto Law Office, even the most straightforward plans often involve important legal and personal details—like testamentary trusts, unmarried partners, or special needs provisions. Here’s why a customized, thoughtful approach matters.

There are many decisions that need to be made when it comes to healthcare. Some of these decisions can be made ahead of time through...

Many couples have fulfilling relationships with their loved one without ever going through the official process of marriage. However, the...

Creating an estate plan is one of the best things that a person can do for themselves and their loved ones. While no one likes to...