A will is the instruction that takes effect when you die. It names who inherits what passes through your estate, who administers it, and — for parents — who you nominate to raise your children.
Three things, and they matter in this order for most families.
It does not avoid probate — it directs how probate comes out. It does not override a beneficiary designation on a retirement account or life insurance policy. It has no effect at all while you are alive, which is why powers of attorney sit alongside it.
Florida has specific requirements for how a will must be signed and witnessed. A perfectly drafted will that was executed incorrectly can fail. A self-proving affidavit signed at the same time saves your family from tracking down witnesses years later. Remote online signing is permitted, subject to the statutory requirements.
Florida does not recognize unwitnessed handwritten (holographic) wills made in the state. Execution formalities are not optional here.
Yes, while you have capacity, by a new will or a formal amendment. Crossing things out on the original does not work.
No. A probated will becomes a public court record. Privacy is a reason people choose a trust.
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