Estate Planning Attorney St. Petersburg “Debra helped make sure we did it right.”—John, 5-Star Avvo Review
- Board-Certified in Marital and Family Law
- Dozens of 5-Star Google and Avvo Reviews
- Handling Complex and High-Asset Estates
Put Your Future in Trusted Hands 5-Star Reviews of Attorney Debra J. Sutton
You've worked hard to establish your estate. You deserve trustworthy guidance in making sure it continues to function exactly as you wish. Debra J. Sutton is a board-certified family and marital attorney who has inspired many to recommend her services to those they care about most.
If you're ready to start the process of drafting a will, establishing a trust, or designating power of attorney, we invite you to request a consultation.
Request a Consultation Today With a Board-Certified Attorney
Estate planning, wills, and trusts are matters that require reputable legal guidance. Debra J. Sutton has led a thriving family law practice serving St. Petersburg and communities throughout the Greater Tampa Bay area for over three decades. Law firms don't survive that long without repeatedly proving themselves worthy of client trust. With Ms. Sutton at your side, you can expect that your assets will be used precisely as you want.
During a private consultation, Debra can begin drafting estate planning documents that reflect your wishes. Because these are highly personalized documents, you can expect to receive the focused individual attention you deserve every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today at our St. Petersburg law office. You can write to us or call:
“Truly a comforting feeling.” 5-Star Google Reviews
Steve Steiner
Lakeland, FL
2024
I have known Debra and Matt on both a professional and personal basis for a number of years, and have recommended Sutton Law Firm to others, based on their expertise and guidance on legal matters I have encountered, knowing they can --- and have --- done so for a multitude of clients. While other law firms may boast they are on the side of their clients, and I am sure those are, Debra and Matt and their incredible support staff "walk the walk "
View on GoogleUzuel Arteaga
Bartow, FL
2022
If your looking for a Lawfirm that will take your case personally and get you results, look no further. Having Debra’s extensive legal knowledge, intimidating presence and shear confidence on your side of the courtroom is truly a comforting feeling. I definitely recommend them to anyone who wants results.
View on GoogleWhy You Need Debra J. Sutton to Guide Your Personal Estate Planning
It's entirely possible to draft a will or establish a trust without an attorney, but going it alone involves risks that are best avoided. Here are just a few reasons why clients choose Debra J. Sutton when they need an estate planning attorney in St. Petersburg, FL:
Minimized Tax Impact on Estates
Debra J. Sutton has been a leader in Florida's legal community for more than 35 years. She understands our state's intricate laws and can use that knowledge to help you create a trust that minimizes the tax impact, helping your beneficiaries get the most from the assets you place within it.
A Legacy Reflecting Your Wishes
Without a will or trust, your assets will be distributed by the state, whose process may or may not reflect your preferences. Debra J. Sutton's estate planning services can ensure that the state's involvement is minimized, allowing you to distribute your assets as you see fit.
A Valid & Error-Free Document
Estate law is complex, and without legal expertise, it can be all too easy to make a mistake that leads to outcomes you don't want. Let Debra J. Sutton provide the legal scrutiny your estate deserves so that your wishes are carried out to the letter.
Our Estate Planning Services
Wills
A will is a legal document that determines how your assets are divided and distributed after your death. It designates an executor (the person responsible for carrying out the will) and can specify who will assume guardianship of any minor children. Debra Sutton can help draft your will and serve as a witness to your signing of the will. She can also serve as your personal representative when it's time to execute the document.
Living Wills
A living will is a document that functions like a traditional will, but it can be executed while you are alive if you become incapacitated. It can also specify your wishes regarding medical care and financial decisions. Ms. Sutton will work closely with you to make sure that your wishes are respected and carried out in the event of incapacitation.
Power of Attorney
If you believe you may need to grant a trusted person the legal right to make decisions on your behalf regarding money and medical care, you can grant that person power of attorney. Debra J. Sutton can help you achieve priceless peace of mind by creating a document that ensures the most important decisions in your life will be left to someone you trust if your physical or mental health affects your ability to make these decisions yourself.
Trusts
A trust is a document that designates a trusted third party (such as a bank, attorney, or accountant) to assume ownership of certain assets, which are to be distributed to specific beneficiaries. Debra Sutton can help you establish a trust that avoids probate (the process in which the courts transfer assets to beneficiaries following your death, which can take more than a year) and minimizes tax liabilities. Generally speaking, trusts can benefit those with significant assets, complex assets, and dependents with special needs.
Estate Planning FAQ
I don't have children. Do I need a will?
If you have the desire to distribute your assets to any specific party—regardless of their relation to you—you need a will. Otherwise, the state will distribute your assets to surviving family members. If you have none, your assets will become property of the state.
I'm getting a divorce, and my spouse is listed as a beneficiary in my will. Does the divorce automatically change that?
No. If you no longer want your ex-spouse named as a beneficiary, you need to consult a lawyer to help you change the terms of your will.
Can I name my pet a beneficiary in a will or trust?
You can designate someone to care for the pet and establish a special trust to fund the pet's care.
Can a trust be changed?
It depends. Trusts can be revocable or irrevocable. If you want an absolutely irrevocable trust, Debra Sutton can help make that happen. Or, if you want to create a trust in anticipation of certain changes becoming necessary, Ms. Sutton can also help create a trust that holds that option.
Have another question for our estate planning lawyer in St. Petersburg?
