Last Updated: December, 2025

As a divorced or single parent in Florida, you may be wondering if you can appoint someone other than your ex-spouse to manage your children’s inheritance.

Whether you live in Miami, Boca Raton, or Orlando, it’s important to understand how Florida law handles these matters and how you can safeguard your children’s future.

Key Takeaways
● This article provides general educational information under Florida law

● Estate and business planning decisions require individualized strategy

● Planning is about clarity and control — not just documents

● Legal guidance is provided through attorney-led strategy sessions

When you create an estate plan, you have the right to choose who will manage your children’s inheritance. If you’re divorced, this may include naming someone other than your ex-spouse as the trustee of a trust or as the guardian of your children. Florida law allows you to make these choices, but it’s essential to do so correctly.

Choosing a Trustee Other Than Your Ex-Spouse in Florida

• Designating a Trustee: If you want someone other than your ex-spouse to manage your children’s inheritance, you can name a trusted family member, friend, or financial advisor as the trustee. This ensures that your children’s financial needs are met without involving your
  ex-spouse in the management of their inheritance.
• Court Considerations: Florida law typically allows you to designate anyone as a trustee, but if your ex-spouse is named in your will or trust, they may have legal standing to challenge this designation in certain cases. It’s essential to make your wishes clear and legally enforceable.
• Living in Areas Like Miami or Fort Lauderdale: If you live in high-value areas, the assets your children inherit may require careful management. A financial advisor or someone experienced in estate planning might be the ideal choice to avoid conflicts and ensure the inheritance is handled appropriately.

Why You Should Appoint Someone Other Than Your Ex-Spouse

Appointing a trusted individual to manage your children’s inheritance ensures that their financial future is secure and managed according to your wishes. It also reduces the risk of conflict and ensures that your children are provided for, regardless of your past relationship.

Don’t leave your children’s future to chance. Contact an experienced estate planning attorney in Miami, Boca Raton, or Orlando to ensure that your estate plan reflects your wishes, especially regarding the management of your children’s inheritance.

Attorney Sonia Muñoz Gallagher works with Florida families, business
owners, and medical professionals to provide strategic legal guidance
designed to prevent crisis-driven decisions and unnecessary court
involvement.

Want clarity before making decisions?
Attend a free estate planning or business planning webinar hosted by Attorney Sonia Muñoz Gallagher.
👉 Register here

Read: How Can I Protect My Children’s Inheritance from My Ex-Spouse’s Creditors or Lawsuits?