Trusts are powerful tools for protecting what you’ve worked hard for. At Panther Law, we help Zephyrhills families set up revocable living trusts to keep their affairs private, avoid probate headaches, and ensure their wishes are honored—no court drama, no delays.
Why Consider a Trust?
A living trust can:
- Move your assets directly to your heirs, bypassing probate
- Protect your family’s privacy (no public court filings)
- Let someone you trust step in immediately if you become incapacitated
- Simplify things for loved ones during difficult times
Florida-Specific Benefits:
Even though Florida probate isn’t the harshest, it can still take months and cost thousands in fees (often around 3% of the estate). A properly funded trust lets your family skip the court process—saving time, money, and stress.
Types of Trusts Explained
Revocable Living Trust:
- Most common for Florida families
- You can change or cancel it anytime
- You stay in control as trustee during your life
Irrevocable Trust:
- Can’t be changed after setup
- Often used for asset protection, Medicaid planning, or tax reasons
Special Needs or Medicaid Trusts:
- Tailored to protect disabled loved ones or qualify for benefits (see our
Special Needs Planning page)
Key Point: For most, a revocable living trust is the go-to option. Panther Law will help you choose what’s right for your unique needs.
How Does a Living Trust Work?
- You create the trust. You (the grantor) set it up and can be the trustee, managing your assets as usual.
- You fund the trust. Title your home, bank accounts, and other assets in the trust’s name—this step is crucial.
- You name successor trustees. If you pass away or can’t manage things, your chosen person takes over immediately.
- During your life: The trust is “invisible”—you file taxes and spend money as normal.
- After death/incapacity: Your successor trustee pays bills and distributes assets according to your wishes—no court needed.
Example:
A local Zephyrhills family worked with Panther Law to put their house and savings into a living trust. When the owner passed away, the trustee settled everything in weeks—no probate, no court costs, just a smooth transfer to their children.
Trust vs. Will—What’s Best for You?
- Wills are important for naming guardians and handling things a trust can’t.
- Trusts are ideal if you want to avoid probate, keep things private, or own property in multiple states.
- Both are needed. Even with a trust, you need a “pour-over will” to cover anything left out.
Panther Law advises on the right balance for your goals—no upselling, just clear guidance.
Related Probate services
FAQs: Living Trusts in Florida
Do I need a trust or a will in Florida?
Most families benefit from both. Trusts avoid probate; wills cover guardianships and assets outside the trust. We help you decide what fits your life and assets.
How does a revocable living trust work?
You stay in charge as trustee, but you’re also able to name a backup to step in if needed. The trust manages your assets now and after you’re gone, all according to your rules.
What are the benefits of a living trust?
Probate avoidance, privacy, immediate access for heirs, and no court oversight are the biggest benefits—especially valuable for larger or more complex estates.
What’s the cost of setting up a trust in Florida?
Setting up a trust has upfront costs, but these are often far less than the cumulative probate expenses and delays. We offer transparent pricing and a free consultation to go over your options.
Take Control of Your Legacy—Start Your Trust Today
Panther Law makes trusts straightforward. From drafting and funding to choosing the right trustees, we handle the details and demystify the process. The result? Peace of mind for you—and a hassle-free inheritance for your family.
