What to Expect in the First Meeting with Your Estate Planning Attorney in Florida?

By: Jeffrey Stoll October 14, 2025 1:49 am

Time to read: 6 Minutes

Introduction

Meeting with an estate planning attorney for the first time can feel overwhelming. You may wonder what questions to ask, what documents to bring, and what outcomes to expect. In Florida, where estate laws can be complex, preparing for this initial consultation helps you save time, reduce stress, and ensure your attorney can provide the best advice.

At The Law Offices of Jeffrey R. Stoll, P.A., we guide individuals and families through wills, trusts, probate, and comprehensive planning with a Plantation estate planning attorney. This first meeting lays the foundation for your long-term financial and family security.

Why Is the First Meeting With an Estate Planning Attorney So Important?

The first meeting sets the foundation for your estate plan by helping your attorney understand your goals, assets, and family dynamics.

This consultation isn’t about signing documents on the spot — it’s about gathering information. Your attorney will ask about your financial picture, family circumstances, and long-term wishes. From there, they can recommend whether a will in Florida or guidance from a Plantation trust attorney is the best fit.

This meeting also gives you the chance to ask questions about probate, tax implications, and Florida-specific estate planning laws.

What Should You Bring to the First Meeting?

Bring financial documents, family information, and any existing estate planning documents to your first attorney meeting.

Typical items include:

• Bank and investment account statements
• Real estate deeds and mortgage documents
• Retirement and life insurance policies
• Information about businesses or partnerships
• Existing wills, trusts, or power of attorney documents

If you’re starting from scratch, the essential estate planning documents outline what you need to protect your family and assets.

What Questions Will Your Attorney Ask You?

Your estate planning attorney will ask about your assets, debts, family relationships, and goals for distributing your estate.

Expect questions like:

• Who should inherit your property and assets?
• Who will care for your minor children if something happens to you?
• Do you want to avoid probate through trusts?
• Who should make medical or financial decisions for you if you become incapacitated?

Depending on your answers, the attorney may suggest guidance from a Plantation wills lawyer or long-term options such as guardianship.

How Do Florida Laws Shape the First Meeting?

Direct Answer (snippet): Florida estate planning laws determine how wills, trusts, and probate work, so your attorney will tailor advice to state-specific requirements.

For example, Florida requires strict formalities for signing wills. If these aren’t followed, the will may be invalid. Your attorney may also explain how navigating the Florida probate process works and why many clients choose a Plantation probate attorney for support.

They’ll also discuss issues like homestead property protections and spousal rights unique to Florida residents.

What Outcomes Should You Expect After the First Meeting?

After the first meeting, you’ll leave with a clear roadmap for creating your estate plan, even if no documents are signed that day.

Most attorneys provide:

• An overview of recommended strategies
• A checklist of documents to prepare or update
• A timeline for drafting and reviewing your plan
• An estimated cost for services

This ensures you know exactly what comes next and how to move forward with your Plantation estate planning attorney.

How Does the First Meeting Differ for Young Families vs. Retirees?

Young families often focus on guardianship and life insurance, while retirees focus on preserving assets and reducing probate risks.

For example:

• Parents with young children often prioritize guardianship and trusts for minors, as explained in Florida estate planning for young families.
• Retirees may focus on Medicaid planning, long-term care, and updating existing wills or trusts with a Fort Lauderdale estate planning attorney or a Boca Raton estate planning attorney.

How Should You Prepare Emotionally and Practically?

Preparing for your first estate planning meeting involves gathering paperwork and being ready to make personal decisions about your family’s future.

It’s normal to feel uneasy discussing mortality. But being open and honest with your attorney ensures they can design a plan that works. The importance of updating your estate plan shows why preparation now prevents problems later.

FAQs About the First Estate Planning Meeting

Q1. Do I need a will before meeting an attorney?
No. An attorney will explain the legal requirements for a valid will in Florida.

Q2. How long does the first meeting take?
Usually 1–2 hours, depending on the complexity of your assets and questions.

Q3. Does the attorney handle probate as well?
Yes. Attorneys also assist with probate and related property matters such as real estate closings.

Q4. What if I already have a trust?
Bring it with you. A Plantation trust attorney can review it to ensure it aligns with your goals and Florida law.

Summary Takeaways

• The first meeting sets the stage for your Florida estate plan.
• Bring financial and family documents for review.
• Expect questions about heirs, guardianship, and medical decisions.
• Florida’s unique estate laws make professional guidance essential.
• You’ll leave with a clear roadmap, not just paperwork.

Conclusion

Your first meeting with a Florida estate planning attorney is about creating clarity and building trust. With the right preparation, you’ll walk away with a roadmap to protect your family, your assets, and your peace of mind.

At The Law Offices of Jeffrey R. Stoll, P.A., we’ve helped countless Floridians navigate wills, trusts, probate, and estate planning with confidence. Schedule a consultation today with a Plantation estate planning attorney to begin protecting your future.