Last updated and reviewed for accuracy: April 2026
As a Panama City attorney, I am often asked by my clients, “I don’t have much, do I need a will?”
My answer is always the same:
“Yes — absolutely. You need a will.”
Many people mistakenly believe that estate planning is only for the wealthy. In reality, a properly drafted Florida will is important for nearly every adult, especially parents with minor children.
If you do not have a will in place, a Florida judge may decide who will care for your minor children if something happens to you. For many parents, creating a will is one of the most important estate planning decisions they can make because it allows them to choose who will raise their children and manage their assets.
In Florida, a minor child is generally defined as anyone under the age of 18 who has not been legally emancipated.
A properly drafted Florida last will and testament allows you to name a guardian for your minor children. You may also appoint a trustee to manage money or property for your children until they reach adulthood. Some parents choose the same person to serve in both roles, while others appoint separate individuals for childcare and financial management responsibilities.
Without a valid will, your wishes regarding guardianship, inheritance, and property distribution may not be followed.
A will is also important if you want to:
- Leave unequal inheritances to your children
- Disinherit a beneficiary
- Protect assets for minor children
- Designate a trusted guardian
- Avoid confusion and family disputes
Under Florida law, any person who is of sound mind and either 18 years of age or older or legally emancipated may create a will. You can change or revoke your will at any time.
In Florida, the Florida Probate Code requires that a will be signed in the presence of two witnesses to be legally valid. At the Morris Law Firm in Panama City, our attorneys help individuals and families create legally valid wills, codicils (an amendment to an existing last will and testament), and plans tailored to their needs. We also have notaries available on-site for convenience.
If you need help creating a will in Panama City or throughout Bay County, contact the experienced estate planning attorneys at the Morris Law Firm today.
