Estate Planning & Probate — Personal Guidance You Can Trust
Protecting your family and your legacy with the same personal attention we bring to every client relationship.
Planning for What Matters Most
Estate planning is about more than documents — it is about making sure the people and things you care about are protected. At Stromberg & Associates, we bring the same personal attention to estate planning that we bring to every real estate closing: direct access to your attorney, thorough preparation, and a genuine commitment to your peace of mind.
Sam Stromberg works directly with individuals and families in Jacksonville Beach and throughout Northeast Florida to create estate plans that reflect their unique circumstances and goals. Whether you are a first-time homeowner thinking about a basic will or a real estate investor with a complex portfolio, we provide clear guidance without the jargon.
Wills & Last Testaments
A properly drafted will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes, names guardians for minor children, and can simplify the probate process for your loved ones. We prepare wills that are clear, legally sound, and tailored to your specific family and financial situation.
If you already have a will, we can review it to make sure it still reflects your current circumstances — especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the purchase of significant real estate.
Trusts
Trusts offer flexibility, privacy, and control that a will alone cannot provide. We help clients establish trusts that serve a range of purposes:
- Revocable living trusts to avoid probate and maintain privacy
- Irrevocable trusts for asset protection and tax planning
- Land trusts for Florida real estate holdings
- Special needs trusts for beneficiaries with disabilities
- Trustee guidance and trust administration
For real estate investors, land trusts are a particularly valuable tool for holding Florida property — providing privacy, simplifying transfers, and avoiding the need for probate on individual properties.
Powers of Attorney & Advance Directives
We prepare durable powers of attorney, healthcare surrogates, and living wills that ensure your wishes are honored if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. These documents are an essential part of any complete estate plan, and we take the time to explain each one so you understand exactly what you are signing and why.
Probate Administration
When a loved one passes, the probate process can feel overwhelming. We guide personal representatives (executors) through Florida's probate requirements with patience and clarity. Our probate services include:
- Filing petitions and opening probate proceedings
- Identifying, valuing, and managing estate assets
- Notifying creditors and resolving claims
- Preparing accountings and distributions
- Closing the estate and discharging the personal representative
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a trust or is a will enough?
It depends on your goals and circumstances. A will is sufficient for many people, but a trust can avoid probate, provide privacy, and offer more control over how and when your assets are distributed. We can help you evaluate which approach is right for you.
How long does probate take in Florida?
Simple probate cases in Florida typically take 6 to 12 months. More complex estates with disputes, tax issues, or multiple properties may take longer. We work to move the process along efficiently while keeping you informed at every step.
Should I use a land trust for my Florida property?
Land trusts are a popular tool for Florida real estate owners. They provide privacy (the trust name appears in public records, not yours), simplify transfers, and can help avoid probate on individual properties. We can set one up as part of your broader estate or investment strategy.
Other Practice Areas
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with Sam Stromberg to discuss your needs.