Planning Ahead Shouldn’t Feel Overwhelming. We are Here to Make It Simple.
Trust & Estate Planning That Protects What Matters Most
Creating a trust or planning your estate is not just about documents — it is about protecting your family, your future, and your peace of mind. At Amy Dow Elder Law, we guide you through the process with clarity, compassion, and a plan that reflects what’s most important to you.
Why Trust & Estate Planning Can Feel So Overwhelming
When You’re Unsure What Comes Next, Peace of Mind Feels Out of Reach
Facing the thought of what happens to your home, your savings, or your loved ones after you are gone can feel paralyzing. The legal terms are confusing. The paperwork is endless. And everywhere you turn, someone gives you different advice.
You might be worried about family conflict. About protecting your spouse. Or about what happens if you don’t have everything “in writing.” That pressure builds — and often, people freeze instead of plan.
But you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Amy Dow Elder Law, we walk you through each step with clarity, compassion, and a plan that reflects your wishes — not someone else’s.
Supporting aging parents is one of the most emotional challenges our family has faced. Thankfully, we had Amy Dow to guide us through the legal maze and insurance complexities. She took the time to understand our situation and broke down our options in a way that actually made sense. Amy was responsive, kind, and an absolute relief to work with.
The Right Estate Plan Gives You More Than Legal Documents
It’s About Protection, Peace of Mind, and Knowing Your Wishes Will Be Honored
A well-crafted trust or estate plan is not just legal paperwork — it’s a safeguard for your family, your assets, and your legacy. At Amy Dow Elder Law, we take time to understand your values and goals, so the plan we create truly reflects what matters most to you.
Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a recent change, we help you feel confident that your future — and your loved ones — are protected.
You can also explore our broader elder law services to see how we support clients through Medicaid, long-term care, and beyond.
✅ Avoids costly legal mistakes and delays
✅ Protects your home, savings, and personal wishes
✅ Prevents family disputes through clear planning
✅ Ensures your documents are legally sound and Florida-compliant
✅ Gives your family peace of mind when they need it most
What Is Included in Trust & Estate Planning
Step-by-Step Protection for Your Family, Finances, and Future
Trust and estate planning is about more than preparing documents — it is about protecting your family, preserving your values, and making sure your legacy is honored. According to a 2023 Gallup survey, only 46% of adults in the United States have a will or estate plan in place — leaving many families unprepared during times of crisis.
At Amy Dow Elder Law, we provide the clarity and structure to help you get it done the right way.
Our team helps you build a plan designed to avoid probate, prevent disputes, and support long-term goals. Whether you are planning ahead or navigating a recent change, we walk beside you every step of the way.
Clarity Around Wills, Trusts, and Legal Documents
We explain the purpose of each document in plain language and ensure that everything is drafted correctly. Whether you need a revocable living trust, a last will and testament, or powers of attorney, we help you understand how they work together to protect your wishes and avoid unnecessary complications.
Strategies to Protect Your Family and Assets
Our planning process helps safeguard what matters most to you. From shielding your home from probate to minimizing tax burdens and preserving your wealth for future generations, we build every plan with your long-term security in mind.
Ongoing Support and Future Flexibility
Life changes — and your estate plan should be able to adapt. We stay available to update your documents as needed and ensure that your plan continues to meet your goals, even years down the line. You are never left without guidance.
Real Families. Real Relief. Real Results.
When the Future Feels Uncertain, Peace of Mind Starts With the Right Plan
Families come to Amy Dow Elder Law not just for legal services — but for clarity, reassurance, and results they can trust. Whether navigating a complex estate issue or simply trying to prepare for the years ahead, our clients often share the same feeling: peace of mind.
These words come directly from those we have helped — and they speak for themselves.
Who We Help — Estate Planning Tailored to Life’s Realities
Personalized Legal Support for Families, Couples, and Independent Seniors
No two lives or legacies look the same. Some clients come to us facing urgent decisions, while others are preparing thoughtfully for the future. Whether you are trying to protect a spouse, secure your children’s inheritance, or gain peace of mind as you age alone, we guide you through each step with compassion and clarity.
Below are four distinct groups we work with regularly, each with unique legal goals and personal priorities.
Adult Children Managing a Parent’s Estate or Final Wishes
When you are responsible for honoring someone’s legacy, the right legal guidance matters.
We help adult children navigate wills, trusts, and estate administration with clarity and compassion. Whether you are acting as executor, trustee, or caregiver, we ensure everything is handled legally, efficiently, and in alignment with your parent’s wishes.
Married Couples Planning for the Future Together
Protect what you have built — and plan for peace of mind.
We help couples create trusts and other tools that safeguard assets, reduce tax exposure, and ensure that both partners are protected regardless of what the future holds. From advance directives to blended family planning, our team crafts personalized strategies for long-term clarity.
Solo Seniors Preparing Without Immediate Family Support
You are not alone — and your future deserves a clear plan.
We work with independent seniors to draft legal documents, set up trusts, and designate appropriate decision-makers. Whether you are aging in place or moving into a care setting, we help you create a plan that protects your independence and dignity.
Caregivers Supporting Loved Ones with Special Needs
Plan for a loved one’s future — legally and compassionately.
If you are responsible for someone with a disability or special needs, we help you structure long-term legal protections. From special needs trusts to successor guardianship and care coordination, our goal is to ensure your loved one is supported now and in the future.
The Process: What to Expect from Start to Signature
Step-by-Step Guidance for Estate Planning with Clarity and Compassion
Estate planning does not begin with documents — it begins with a conversation. At Amy Dow Elder Law, we take the time to understand your goals, explain your options clearly, and guide you through every step with professionalism and care. Whether you are planning ahead or managing someone’s final wishes, here is what you can expect.
Start with a Personal Consultation
We begin with a private meeting to understand your family dynamics, financial picture, and personal wishes. You will never be rushed or overwhelmed. We are here to listen and help you build a path that honors what matters most.
Gather Key Information
Once we understand your goals, we help you collect the necessary information. From deeds and titles to beneficiary designations and advanced directives, our checklist makes it easy to move forward with confidence.
Build a Customized Estate Plan
Your estate plan is tailored to you — not pulled from a template. We create the right combination of trusts, wills, powers of attorney, and directives to protect your home, savings, and wishes. Every decision is explained in clear terms before anything is signed.
Sign and Secure Your Documents
Once you feel confident in the plan, we coordinate formal signing with all necessary legal witnessing and notarization. We ensure everything is legally binding and provide you with organized copies for your records and future reference.
Enjoy Ongoing Support
Your plan is done — but our relationship does not end. Life changes, and we are here to help update your documents, answer questions, or support your family if something happens. We are not just a legal service. We are your partner in peace of mind.
Have questions about where to begin or what documents you’ll need?
We’ll walk you through every step —starting with a free consultation.
Clear Answers to the Questions Families Ask Most
Frequently Asked Questions About
Trust & Estate Planning
Estate planning is deeply personal — and often confusing. At Amy Dow Elder Law, we believe informed clients make the best decisions. That is why we have compiled answers to the most common questions we hear about trusts, wills, and protecting your legacy.
Whether you are just starting the process or trying to understand your options, these answers are designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
How does trust work in Estate Planning?
A trust is a legal tool that allows a person (the “grantor”) to transfer assets into the control of a trustee, who manages those assets on behalf of chosen beneficiaries. In estate planning, trusts are used to ensure that your property, savings, or investments are protected and distributed according to your wishes — often without the delays or costs of probate.
There are different types of trusts, including revocable living trusts, which allow you to make changes during your lifetime, and irrevocable trusts, which are more permanent but can provide stronger asset protection. A well-crafted trust can help avoid family disputes, minimize estate taxes, maintain privacy, and ensure long-term financial care for loved ones — including minor children, aging spouses, or those with special needs.
At Amy Dow Elder Law, we help you determine whether a trust is appropriate for your goals and guide you through every detail with clarity, compassion, and legal precision.
What is the major disadvantage of a trust?
While trusts offer many advantages in estate planning, they are not without drawbacks. The primary disadvantage is often cost and complexity — especially compared to a simple will.
According to a 2023 survey by Caring.com, only 34% of American adults have a will or trust, and many cite complexity and cost as the reason for delaying their plans.
Here are the most common disadvantages to consider:
-
Higher Initial Setup Costs:
Creating a revocable living trust typically costs more than drafting a will. You may also need to retitle property and assets into the trust, which takes additional time and coordination. -
Ongoing Maintenance:
Trusts require updates when assets change, beneficiaries shift, or laws evolve. Without proper maintenance, even a well-written trust may become outdated or ineffective. -
Limited Asset Protection in Revocable Trusts:
A revocable living trust does not shield assets from creditors, lawsuits, or long-term care costs — unlike certain irrevocable trusts, which offer greater protection but come with less flexibility.
Despite these challenges, the benefits of a trust — including privacy, probate avoidance, and long-term control — often outweigh the downsides for families with complex estates or specific planning goals. An experienced elder law attorney can help you weigh the pros and cons based on your situation.
For more background, you can also visit The IRS regarding Estates and Trusts or explore our Elder Law Services for a complete picture of how we support Florida families.
What is the biggest mistake parents make when setting up a trust fund?
The most common and critical mistake parents make when setting up a trust fund is failing to clearly define the distribution terms and structure for the beneficiaries. A trust without thoughtful planning can unintentionally create conflict, confusion, or even long-term harm to the very people it was meant to protect.
According to the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), more than 60% of trust-related disputes stem from vague language or unclear beneficiary instructions.
Here are other frequent mistakes parents should avoid:
-
Naming the wrong trustee:
A trustee must be financially savvy, responsible, and impartial. Choosing someone based solely on family connection rather than capability often leads to poor decisions or tension. -
Leaving distributions too open-ended:
Trusts that provide unrestricted access at a certain age (like 18 or 21) can result in irresponsible spending. A properly structured trust can stagger distributions or tie them to life events like education or milestones. -
Forgetting to update the trust:
Life changes — such as divorce, births, deaths, or shifts in asset value — can make an existing trust outdated. Failing to review and revise the trust regularly may lead to unintended outcomes. -
Overlooking special needs or tax considerations:
Not accounting for a beneficiary’s disability or potential estate tax liability can disqualify them from important benefits or create unnecessary financial burdens.
Working with an experienced estate planning attorney helps parents avoid these pitfalls and ensures the trust reflects their values, protects their children, and remains legally effective over time.
At what net worth should you have a trust?
There is no single dollar amount that determines when a trust becomes necessary, but most estate planning professionals recommend considering one when your net worth exceeds $250,000 to $500,000 — especially if you own real estate, a business, or have beneficiaries with special considerations.
According to Fidelity Investments, individuals with more than $500,000 in assets and complex family or tax situations are ideal candidates for trusts.
Here are common situations where a trust becomes especially beneficial:
-
You own property in more than one state
A trust can help avoid multiple probate processes by placing real estate into a single legal structure. -
You want to avoid probate
Probate can be public, expensive, and time-consuming. A revocable living trust keeps your estate private and typically allows faster distribution. -
You have children, dependents, or special needs planning goals
Trusts can help stagger distributions, create protections, or ensure eligibility for programs like Medicaid or SSI. -
You are concerned about asset protection or estate taxes
While the federal estate tax exemption is currently over $13 million (as of 2024), state thresholds and future legislative changes make proactive planning smart — even for families well below that level. -
You want to maintain control after death
A trust allows you to guide how, when, and to whom assets are distributed — far beyond what a basic will can accomplish.
Even if your estate is modest today, setting up a trust early can create a flexible legal framework that grows with your life and protects your legacy in the future.
Why have a trust instead of a will?
A trust and a will both serve as tools for distributing your assets after death, but a trust offers distinct advantages — especially when privacy, efficiency, and long-term control are priorities.
Unlike a will, a trust allows your estate to bypass probate, which can save your family time, legal fees, and public exposure. According to the American Bar Association, probate can take 6 to 12 months or longer, and may cost 3% to 7% of the total estate value in court and legal fees.
Key Reasons to Choose a Trust Over a Will:
-
Avoids Probate:
Assets placed in a trust pass directly to your beneficiaries, without court involvement. -
Maintains Privacy:
Wills become public record after death. Trusts remain private, protecting your family’s personal and financial details. -
Enables Long-Term Control:
A trust allows you to manage how and when your assets are distributed — whether in stages, by milestone, or over a beneficiary’s lifetime. -
Reduces Delays and Costs:
Your loved ones can access what they need without the delays and administrative burdens of probate. -
Provides for Incapacity:
A trust can name a successor trustee to manage your affairs if you become unable to do so, avoiding the need for guardianship proceedings.
Wills still have a place in estate planning, particularly for naming guardians for minor children or addressing assets not placed into a trust. However, for those seeking greater protection, privacy, and peace of mind, a trust is often the more strategic solution.
What are reasons to not having a trust?
While trusts offer many benefits, they are not the right choice for every estate. Some individuals may find that a simple will or a combination of other estate planning tools meets their needs without the added complexity or cost.
Common Reasons Not to Have a Trust:
-
Smaller or Simplified Estates:
If your total assets are modest, do not include real estate, and can be transferred via beneficiary designations or joint ownership, a trust may be unnecessary. -
Higher Upfront Costs:
Creating a trust often involves more time, legal fees, and paperwork than a basic will. According to LegalZoom, the average cost of a revocable living trust ranges from $1,200 to $3,000, depending on complexity and location. -
Ongoing Maintenance Requirements:
Trusts require retitling of assets and regular updates as life circumstances change. Without consistent maintenance, a trust can become ineffective. -
No Tax Advantage for Revocable Trusts:
A revocable living trust does not reduce income or estate taxes. Individuals who are not at risk of estate tax exposure may not gain significant financial benefit. -
You Still Need a Will:
Even with a trust, a “pour-over” will is needed to handle any assets not titled in the trust. This means a trust does not fully eliminate the need for traditional estate planning documents.
A trust is a powerful legal tool, but not always necessary. For many individuals, especially those with limited assets or straightforward distributions, a will-based plan may provide sufficient protection and control — without the additional complexity.
Still have questions, click here to schedule your free consultation.
Still have questions about estate planning or how a trust may fit your goals?
We are here to help.
At Amy Dow Elder Law, you will find a legal team that listens, explains, and protects — without pressure or confusion.
Let us guide you through each step with experience, compassion, and a plan built around you.
Ready to Secure Your Legacy with Confidence?
Let’s Talk About the Future You Want to Protect
Whether you are planning ahead or responding to a life change, you deserve clear legal guidance — without overwhelm, confusion, or pressure. At Amy Dow Elder Law, we are here to listen first, then walk you through your options with compassion and care.
From creating a trust to protecting your estate for the next generation, we make the process calm, personal, and legally sound.
Let us help you protect what matters most — with peace of mind built into every step.
Office Number: (561) 288-1750
Your message is 100% confidential and will be handled with care.
Trusted Guidance From the Florida Bar
Download the Elder Law Booklet Amy Dow Helped Write
Amy Dow, a respected Elder Law Lawyer and co-author of this official Florida Bar guide, brings you vital insights into Medicaid planning, asset protection, and elder law strategies. This free resource gives you the knowledge to protect your loved ones — and avoid costly mistakes.
