Estate Planning
Estate planning is about more than just preparing legal documents — it’s about protecting your loved ones, preserving your assets, and ensuring your wishes are honored. Whether you want to create a will, establish a trust, or put advance directives in place, the choices you make today can prevent confusion, conflict, and financial stress in the future.
At McNary Law, our estate planning attorneys serve clients throughout Bradenton, Sarasota, and surrounding communities. We understand that planning for the future can feel overwhelming, which is why we take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and craft a plan that reflects your values and goals. Our mission is to provide peace of mind knowing that your affairs are in order and your family will be cared for.
Why Estate Planning Matters
Estate planning is often misunderstood as something only wealthy families need. In reality, anyone who owns property, has children, or wants control over how their healthcare and finances are managed should have an estate plan. Without a plan, Florida law will decide who inherits your assets and who makes decisions on your behalf, which may not align with your wishes.
By creating a thoughtful estate plan, you can:
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Protect your family’s financial future.
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Avoid unnecessary delays and expenses in probate.
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Decide who will manage your assets if you become incapacitated.
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Choose guardians for minor children.
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Provide clear healthcare directives to ensure your wishes are honored.
Why Work With McNary Law?
Our Bradenton-based law firm is dedicated to helping clients throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties build strong, effective estate plans. Families choose McNary Law because:
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Local Knowledge: We understand Florida’s estate planning and probate laws in detail.
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Comprehensive Services: We cover every aspect of estate planning, from wills and trusts to healthcare directives and probate.
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Personalized Approach: No two families are alike. We listen to your goals and tailor plans to meet your specific needs.
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Core Values: Guided by honesty, integrity, and community engagement, we provide legal services you can trust.
Our Estate Planning Services
Wills
A Will is the foundation of most estate plans. It allows you to decide who inherits your assets, name guardians for minor children, and appoint a personal representative to handle your affairs. Without a will, your estate is distributed under Florida’s intestacy laws, which may not reflect your wishes.
Trusts
Trusts can provide greater control, privacy, and efficiency in managing your assets. Trusts are especially useful for avoiding probate, protecting minor or special needs beneficiaries, and reducing potential tax burdens. Under Florida’s Trust Code, there are many types of trusts — revocable, irrevocable, charitable, and more — each serving different purposes.
Powers of Attorney
A Power of Attorney gives someone you trust the authority to manage your finances or legal affairs if you cannot. This document can be broad or limited in scope, ensuring that your bills are paid, assets are managed, and financial matters continue smoothly even during incapacity.
Advance Directives
Advance Directives, such as living wills and healthcare surrogate designations, allow you to make decisions about your medical care in advance. They ensure your wishes are respected if you cannot speak for yourself. Florida law recognizes advance directives as an important safeguard for personal dignity and autonomy.
Probate
Probate is the court-supervised process of distributing a deceased person’s estate. With proper planning, probate can often be simplified or avoided altogether. Florida law provides several types of probate, including summary administration for smaller estates. Our attorneys guide families through probate with efficiency and care, ensuring assets are distributed according to the law and the decedent’s wishes.
Additional Estate Planning Tools
Beyond the essentials, we also assist with:
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Guardianship Planning: Naming guardians for minor children or incapacitated adults.
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Digital Assets: Addressing access to online accounts and digital property.
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Property Interests: Managing real estate, business succession, or inheritance rights.
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Charitable Planning: Establishing charitable trusts or donations that reflect your values.
What to Expect When Creating an Estate Plan
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Consultation: We start by learning about your family, your assets, and your goals.
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Customized Plan: We explain your options and create documents tailored to your needs.
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Implementation: We ensure your plan is properly executed and legally valid.
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Ongoing Support: Life changes — so should your estate plan. We’re here to update your plan as your circumstances evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a will if I don’t have much property?
Yes. Even if your estate is modest, a will ensures your wishes are followed and can help avoid disputes among family members.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will directs how assets are distributed after death, while a trust can manage assets both during your lifetime and after your passing, often without probate.
How often should I update my estate plan?
It’s a good idea to review your plan every few years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
Can estate planning help avoid probate?
Yes. Trusts, beneficiary designations, and certain property arrangements can bypass probate, saving time and expense.
Are advance directives legally binding in Florida?
Yes. As long as they are executed properly, advance directives are enforceable and ensure your healthcare wishes are respected.
Serving Bradenton and Sarasota Families With Estate Planning
At McNary Law, we believe estate planning is one of the most important gifts you can give your family. Our attorneys are here to provide clarity, guidance, and peace of mind. Whether you are just starting your estate plan or need to update existing documents, we are ready to help you protect your future.