Get Your Affairs in Order and Relax
After an unusually cold winter, it’s hard to believe that summer is coming up. It’s time to start thinking about road trips, vacations, and days spent on the beach.
Just think about it – you’re poolside with a cold drink in your hand. Or maybe you’re right next to the ocean, watching the waves crash against the shore with a satisfying rhythm. Small children dash into the water, whooping with joy as they find shells and sand dollars. You don’t have a care in the world as you sink down lower in your lounge chair, feeling the sun hot on your skin… hot.
Hot! You leap out of your chair, knocking over your ice-cold drink, sand flying as you run toward a phone. You just remember you left a space heater on at the house, and nightmare visions of flames climbing up your living room curtains flash through your head as you frantically dial your neighbor.
Although this scenario is intended to be humorous, vacation emergencies are no laughing matter.
The Importance of Planning Ahead
In Florida, we are privileged to enjoy wide expanses of gorgeous beaches and beautiful, sunny weather for much of the year. Many people vacation close to home as a result. Any time you venture away from home, however, accidents can happen.
Whether you’re driving or flying, an unexpected accident can cause serious, debilitating injuries and even death. What if you and your spouse are both killed while you’re away from home? Who will take care of your kids if one of you becomes sick in another country?
This is where responsible estate planning comes in. If you’re short on time, you can prepare a basic last will and testament that designates a guardian for your children and names your beneficiaries. You can also prepare a health care surrogate designation and power of attorney that names a trusted individual to oversee important decisions regarding your health and finances. These documents don’t have to be complicated to be effective.
Keep in mind that writing your wishes down on some notebook paper isn’t going to hold up in court. Florida law has strict requirements regarding legally enforceable estate documents. To protect your loved ones and the things you care about, you need properly prepared legal documents in place before you hit the sand. Knowing your important affairs are taken care of will give you true peace of mind as you take a break from the daily grind and enjoy your time off. Contact my office at 772-220-9699.