THE SOTO LAW OFFICE, P.A.

Think a trust means you don't need a will? Think again. Learn why a pour-over will remains an essential safety net for assets left outside your trust, guardianship of minor children, and building a truly complete Florida estate plan.

Many people believe that creating a trust eliminates the need for a will, but a complete Florida estate plan typically includes both. Learn why a pour-over will is essential, how it works alongside a revocable living trust, and why having both documents can help protect your assets, avoid unintended consequences, and ensure your wishes are carried out effectively.

Should you choose a will, a trust, or both? Understanding the differences between these essential estate planning tools can help you protect your assets, avoid unnecessary probate complications, and provide for your loved ones. Learn how wills and trusts work in Florida, the advantages of each, and which option may best fit your family's goals and circumstances.

Dying without a will in Florida means the state decides who inherits your assets and who may care for your children. While intestate laws provide structure, they don’t always reflect your wishes. Understanding how this process works can help you avoid unnecessary stress, delays, and family conflict—and ensure your legacy is protected.

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

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...