Legacy Protection Program
Prevent property loss, preserve generational wealth, and protect long-term assets for low-to-moderate income families—focused in East Tampa.
About the program
The Legacy Preservation Program (LPP) initiative aims to prevent property loss, preserve generational wealth and foster long-term asset protection for low and moderate income (LMI) families in Tampa and Hillsborough County, with a focus on the East Tampa community. East Tampa has the largest concentration of African American homeowners in Hillsborough County. The program will provide essential legal, financial, and educational resources that reduce wealth inequities and promote sustainable homeownership. The program is structured around education, prevention and resolution services. The CDC is partnering with Heiress Law to establish a cost-effective model focused on long-term community impact through:
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Heirs’ Property Education
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Estate Planning Services
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Education on Asset Protection through our Home Matters program
Workshops:
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Probate 101: Navigating Estate Administration
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Kingdom Legacy: Asset Protection & Estate Planning (for churches)
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Elder Law & Medicaid Planning Made Easy
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Heir Tight: Lock in Your Legacy
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Your Legacy, Our Mission: Estate Planning Made Simple
There is no cost to attend. A one-time Initial Intake Form must be completed at the workshop. Workshops will be held at various locations throughout the community.
Have Questions? Contact:
Sartura Shuman Smith
This project is made possible by generous funding from:
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is estate planning?
Estate planning is the process of creating a plan for the management and distribution of your assets and property, if you become incapacitated or upon your death. It involves creating legal documents like a will or trust to ensure your assets are distributed to your intended heirs and loved ones.
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Do I need an estate plan?
Yes, every adult should have an estate plan, regardless of their net worth or age. An estate plan is a crucial strategy for managing your affairs, ensuring that your wishes are honored, and your surviving loved ones are protected. Without an estate plan, state laws and court systems will make decisions about your assets.
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What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will provides control over the distribution of your assets, even after you’re gone. You can choose who is responsible for carrying out your directives as the executor of your will. A trust is a legally binding document that specifies a trusted third party to manage and distribute your assets to a beneficiary on your behalf. That third party is called a trustee, and they have a fiduciary responsibility to act according to your wishes.
Can I have both a will and a trust?
Yes
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What is a Lady Bird Deed (in Florida)?
A Lady Bird Deed in Florida is an estate planning tool that allows a property owner to transfer their home to a beneficiary upon death without going through probate.
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What documents are typically included in an estate plan?
A comprehensive plan often includes a will, an irrevocable trust, durable power of attorney, an advance healthcare directive, charitable planning…
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What is probate?
Probate is the legal process of transferring the property from a deceased person’s estate to their heirs or beneficiaries. It is overseen by the local probate court.
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Do I need a lawyer for estate planning?
While online options exist, an attorney is recommended to ensure your plan is legally sound and tailored to your situation – potentially preventing future issues for your family.​
