Estate planning and probate attorney for Sarasota, Florida families.
Attorney Season A. Chisholm works with families throughout Sarasota, from established neighborhoods and downtown condominiums to homes on Siesta Key and Longboat Key. Planning meetings take place at the Spanski Law office in Venice, a short drive south on U.S. 41, and initial conversations can be held by phone or video.
Estate planning for Sarasota families
Sarasota estates often include higher-value homes, investment accounts, and property owned in more than one state, and blended families are common. Florida's spousal elective share, which generally entitles a surviving spouse to about 30 percent of the elective estate, and the state's homestead rules both shape what a plan can accomplish. For many Sarasota families, a revocable living trust with properly coordinated deeds and beneficiary designations provides privacy and keeps the estate out of probate.
Probate for Sarasota residents
Probate for a Sarasota resident is filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court for Sarasota County. Spanski Law prepares and files each document electronically from the Venice office and keeps the personal representative informed as each document is filed.
Nearby communities
Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Palmer Ranch, The Meadows, Gulf Gate, and Osprey.
Questions from Sarasota families.
Do I need to travel to Venice to work with Spanski Law?
Initial conversations can be held by phone or video. Estate planning documents are signed in person at the Venice office, where the required witnesses and notary are present. Probate matters can usually be handled with few, if any, in-person visits.
Is a revocable trust better than a will for a Sarasota home?
It depends on your family and your assets. A will paired with a Lady Bird deed is often sufficient when the home is the primary asset. A revocable living trust may be the better choice if you own property in more than one state, have a blended family, or value privacy. Season will explain the options that fit your circumstances during your 15-minute call.
Where is probate filed for a Sarasota resident?
Probate for a Sarasota resident is filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court for Sarasota County. Filings are made electronically, and Spanski Law handles them from the Venice office.