Wills & Trusts

Build a Clear Plan for Your Family and Your Assets

Every solid estate plan starts with thoughtfully prepared wills and trusts that reflect your real-life priorities. Saxey Law PLLC helps Destin and Emerald Coast families create these core documents with care, clarity, and a focus on long-term peace of mind.

The Importance of a Will

Why Every Adult Needs a Last Will and Testament

A Last Will and Testament explains who should inherit your assets and who should care for your minor children if something happens to you. In Florida, a valid will must be written and signed by you in the presence of two witnesses, and improperly executed documents can lead to confusion or even litigation. Parents of young children, new homeowners, and recently divorced individuals are especially at risk if they leave these decisions to chance. A carefully drafted will provides clear instructions and reduces the burden on grieving loved ones. Saxey Law ensures your will meets Florida’s formal requirements and truly reflects your wishes.

How Trusts Complement Your Plan

Using Trusts to Protect, Manage, and Transfer Wealth

A trust is a legal arrangement that holds and manages assets for your chosen beneficiaries, often providing more flexibility than a will alone. Revocable living trusts are commonly used in Florida to help families avoid probate, maintain privacy, and manage assets seamlessly during incapacity. Irrevocable trusts can serve specialized purposes, such as protecting assets or planning for long-term care, but they require careful analysis before implementation. Even with a trust, most people still need a “pour-over” will to capture any assets not titled into the trust and to name guardians for minor children. Saxey Law explains how different trust types work so you can choose the structure that fits your goals.

Which Do You Need – Will, Trust, or Both?

Matching Planning Tools to Your Unique Situation

Deciding between a will, a trust, or both depends on factors like your estate size, family dynamics, and desire for privacy. For some families, a well-crafted will provides sufficient protection and clarity at a reasonable cost. For others—such as those owning real estate in multiple states, those with blended families, or those wanting to avoid probate delays—a trust can be a powerful addition. Trusts require more up-front effort and expense but often save time, fees, and stress for your heirs later. We walk you through the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision instead of relying on generic online advice.

Our Will & Trust Services

Comprehensive, Customized Planning Support

Saxey Law PLLC provides end-to-end support for clients who want their estate documents done correctly the first time. We focus on education as much as drafting, making sure you understand what each document does and how it fits into your overall plan. Our work does not stop once the papers are signed, because proper implementation is just as important as design. We also encourage periodic reviews so your plan keeps pace with life’s changes, from new children to major financial shifts. Our services include:



  • Custom drafting of wills that name personal representatives, guardians for minor children, and clear distribution terms.
  • Creation of living trusts and other trust structures tailored to your family, asset mix, and planning objectives.
  • Review and updating of existing wills and trusts to fix gaps, outdated provisions, or prior DIY attempts.
  • Trust funding guidance, including how to retitle assets and coordinate beneficiary designations so your trust actually works.

Secure Your Legacy

Take the First Step Toward a Thoughtful Estate Plan

Putting off a will or trust can leave your family facing unnecessary expense, delay, and conflict at the worst possible time. A clear, well-executed plan is one of the most meaningful gifts you can leave to the people you care about. We make the process approachable, breaking it into manageable steps and explaining choices in plain language. Whether you are starting from scratch or updating outdated documents, our guidance is thorough yet down-to-earth. Contact our Destin estate planning lawyer to discuss creating the will or trust that’s right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions – Wills & Trusts

Answers to Common Estate Planning Questions

  • Do I need a lawyer to draft my will?

    While you can technically write your own will, Florida’s signing requirements and unique legal rules make DIY documents risky. A small mistake—such as using the wrong witness setup or unclear language—can lead to disputes or even invalidate the will. An attorney ensures your document is legally enforceable and tailored to your family’s needs. Professional drafting is especially important if you have minor children, a blended family, or significant assets.

  • What does a trust do that a will cannot?

    A trust can take effect during your lifetime, manage assets if you become incapacitated, and often allow those assets to pass to beneficiaries without probate. Trusts also keep details of your estate private, since they are not filed with the court like many wills. They are especially helpful when you own property in multiple states or want detailed control over when and how beneficiaries receive funds. In contrast, a will primarily controls what happens after death and usually involves probate.

  • If I have a living trust, do I still need a will?

    Yes, most people with a living trust still need a simple “pour-over” will. That will serves as a safety net for any assets not properly titled in the trust, directing them into the trust at death. It is also the place where you formally name guardians for minor children. Without this backup, some assets or important decisions could fall outside your main planning strategy.

  • How often should I update my will or trust?

    It is wise to review your estate plan every few years and after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, or a significant change in assets. Laws can change, and your goals might evolve as your family grows or circumstances shift. Updating documents ensures that outdated provisions or unintended beneficiaries do not undermine your intentions. Saxey Law helps you identify when changes are needed and makes updates straightforward.

  • Who should I choose as executor or trustee?

    You should choose someone responsible, organized, and trustworthy who is willing to take on the role. Many people select a spouse, adult child, or close friend, but a professional fiduciary or corporate trustee may be appropriate in more complex situations. The person you choose should be able to communicate well with your beneficiaries and manage financial tasks carefully. We help you evaluate potential candidates and structure your documents so they are set up for success.