Davie Estate Planning Attorney Focused On Protecting Your Future
Last updated on July 7, 2026
Protecting your future starts with making the right legal decisions early. From wills and trusts to probate and estate administration guidance, our firm, The Law Office of Michael R. Vines, is here to help you create a personalized estate plan that can effectively protect your assets, honor your wishes and provide peace of mind for your loved ones.
Our owner and founding lawyer, attorney Michael Vines, has over 25 years of experience representing individuals and families in Davie, Plantation, Sunrise, Weston and across Florida with their unique estate planning needs and goals. With a focus on compassion and long-term protection, we can make the process straightforward and stress-free for you, every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Planning
Estate planning can raise many important questions, especially when you want to preserve your wealth and provide for your loved ones. To help you better understand your options, Mr. Vines has addressed three usual questions about estate planning in Davie, Florida.
Where are probate proceedings handled for a resident of Davie, Florida?
For residents of Davie, probate and estate administration matters fall under the jurisdiction of the 17th Judicial Circuit Court. The Probate Division is located at the Broward County Central Courthouse within the downtown legal district.
Probate matters are filed and administered through the county’s circuit court system. The specific division that manages the case may depend on the type of probate involved, such as formal administration, summary administration or ancillary administration. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process, ensure the documents are prepared correctly and reduce potential delays.
Are there legal restrictions on who I can leave my primary residence in Davie to in my will?
In Florida, you have broad freedom to decide who inherits your primary residence in your will, including a family member, a sibling or a close friend. However, there are important legal restrictions and exceptions to keep in mind.
For example, if you are married, Florida law provides certain protection for a surviving spouse, which may limit your ability to leave your primary home to someone else. Joint ownership of the home and the way the title is held can also determine its inheritor, irrespective of your will’s stipulations.
Can I disinherit my spouse in my estate plan under Florida law?
No. The state protects surviving spouses from being written out of a will through a statutory mechanism called the “elective share.” Under Florida law, a surviving spouse has the absolute right to claim at least a 30% share of the deceased spouse’s “elective estate.”
This calculation includes not only standard probate assets, but also property held in revocable trusts, joint bank accounts, retirement accounts and payable-on-death designations. The only way to bypass the elective share is if the spouse signs a valid premarital agreement specifically waiving this right.
Call Us Today For A Free Consultation
To discuss your Davie estate planning concerns in private, call our Plantation law office today at 954-902-4841 or schedule your free initial consultation with Mr. Vines through our online contact form.