Will
 

We had our wills drawn up by an attorney in IL. Are they valid in FL or do we need to see an attorney here to have them re-done? We're permanent residents

I've been told by several attorneys that Florida probate/estate law varies substantially from most other states. Suggest you consult a local attorney.

Wills are probated by state. Assuming you have no assets in Illinois, then that will is no good. As a new Florida resident you should have;
1. A health care representative
2. A living will
3. A last will and testement
4. A power of attorney

I would see an attorney here. You should be able to get price quotes over the phone. If your estate is simple you should be able to do boiler plate documents for under $500.

Wills and Trusts
 

We were very pleased with William O Boyd, who has an office just north of the WalMart on 441. He specializes in Wills and Trusts. Here is his website. Just go to "contact us" for the phone number and address in The Villages:

http://boydestatelaw.com/index.php

If you have two residences, and live six months in each, do you need two wills?

You should have your will reviewed but in general, wills written in another state are valid in Florida. Exceptions are holographic (handwritten wills) and oral wills, which are not allowed in Fl.

I was told the other thing to check is that if you are married some states don't let you leave your home to anyone excecpt your spouse no matter what your will says, in which case a codicile has to be made to designate which house is home if you want to leave one residence to someone else. Just what I read on the net, but an area to bring up with your lawyer. A friend also said that its a good idea to have more than is required of indipendent witnesses as some states require only one plus the notery some require two another thing you would want right in both states.

We used Dewey, Cheatem, & Howe. I can't find the # in the book. Anybody that has it please post.

I believe they are in the same building as Dr. Howard, Dr. Fine and Dr. Howard.

Hmmmm I think I'm a victim of circumstances.:shrug: