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Understanding What It Means to Get Your Affairs in Order

Preparing for the inevitable may sound daunting, but in reality, “getting your affairs in order” is less about death and more about living. It gives you clarity, security, and peace of mind. The law already has a plan for you if you fail to make one — but it might not be what you want.


Many people hesitate at the thought of death or assume that planning is only for the elderly or wealthy. In truth, everyone benefits from making plans for the unexpected. Anyone over 18, anyone with a family, a business, or property should understand what happens after death and how their affairs will be handled.


This post explores what “getting your affairs in order” really means, why it matters under the law, who should be involved, and when to start.


What Does It Mean?


Getting your affairs in order means organizing your legal, financial, medical, and personal matters so your wishes are clear and your loved ones are not left scrambling. Proper planning reduces conflict, protects your family, and minimizes costs later.


This typically includes:

  • Legal Affairs: wills, trusts, powers of attorney, guardianship, and other estate/business documents.

  • Financial Affairs: bank accounts, property deeds, retirement accounts, debts, insurance.

  • Medical Affairs: advance directives, healthcare surrogates, HIPAA authorizations.

  • Personal & Digital Affairs: online accounts, family records, and instructions for sentimental items.


Common Misconceptions


  • “I’m too young to worry about this.” Accidents and illnesses can happen at any time.

  • “I don’t have enough money to need a plan.” Even modest estates need direction to avoid probate complications.


In Florida, probate is an actual court proceeding (Chapter 733) that can be costly, time-consuming, and public. Having a will or trust in place saves both money and stress. Without a plan, your estate will pass under intestate succession laws (Chapter 732), which often divide property in unintended ways.


Why It Matters


  1. Peace of Mind – Enforceable documents under state law ensure your wishes are honored. In Florida, wills must be signed and witnessed correctly (F.S. § 732.502).

  2. Reduced Stress for Family – Without a healthcare surrogate, medical decisions may fall to a court-appointed guardian (F.S. § 765.401).

  3. Efficiency and Savings – Trusts under the Florida Trust Code (Chapter 736) can bypass probate entirely. Intestacy guarantees probate court involvement and added expense.

  4. Legacy Beyond Property – Legal planning is also an opportunity to leave ethical wills, letters, or oral histories for your family.


When to Start?


The safest answer is now. Life events that should trigger planning or updates include:

  • Marriage or divorce (F.S. § 732.507(2))

  • Birth or adoption of a child

  • Acquisition of property

  • Changes in health


A review every 3–5 years ensures your documents reflect current law and life circumstances.


Who Should Be Involved?


  • Estate Planning Attorney – Drafts and ensures enforceability.

  • Financial Advisor / CPA – Coordinates tax and financial matters.

  • Healthcare Providers – Help you understand advance directive implications.

  • Family or Trusted Friends – May be named as personal representatives, trustees, or guardians.


Checklist: Getting Started


  • Inventory assets, debts, and insurance.

  • Identify trusted decision-makers (guardians, trustees, healthcare surrogates).

  • Write down family contacts.

  • Execute key documents: will, durable power of attorney, advance directives.

  • Store originals securely.

  • Communicate your plan to family.

  • Schedule a consultation with an estate planning attorney.


Conclusion


Getting your affairs in order is not just about preparing for death; it’s about living with security and clarity. Without direction, children can be left vulnerable, assets can be lost to creditors, families can fall into disputes, and businesses may be disrupted.


By acting now, you protect your loved ones from confusion, conflict, and unnecessary court involvement. Florida law provides a default plan, but it is rarely the right one for your family. With a plan of your own, you live each day with the peace of knowing your wishes will be honored tomorrow.


Terra Sickler

Attorney; Twig, Trade, & Tribunal, PLLC

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