Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Trusts vs. Payable On Death Accounts: Which Is Better?
Many people go into estate planning with the goals of helping their loved ones avoid probate and controlling how their property is distributed after they pass away. While there are many ways to do this, two very popular options are trusts and payable on death accounts. So, which one is better for you? Our… Read More »
Why Update Your Estate Plan When Getting A Divorce?
Divorce changes all aspects of your life from where you live to who you consider as family. Ending your marriage is also one of the most important times for you to review your estate plan and make the necessary changes. Below, one of our St. Petersburg estate planning attorneys outline the most important things… Read More »
How To Draft A Will That Cannot Be Contested
Most people have strong feelings about how they want their property and other affairs handled after they pass away. You may not want to leave a family member any of your property, or you may have reason to believe that an heir will waste their inheritance. In these instances, drafting a will may not… Read More »
Important Probate Timelines In Florida
It is no secret that probate can be a lengthy process in Florida. This is, in fact, one reason people use different strategies to help their loved ones avoid it after they pass away. However, while many people know that it is time-consuming, they do not know the timelines involved, or what happens during… Read More »
Do Stepchildren Have Inheritance Rights In Florida?
Today, blended families are extremely common in Florida. People who have children enter a relationship with a new romantic partner, perhaps who also has children of their own. Eventually, the couple may want to have children of their own. Blended families are a blessing but when it comes to estate planning, they can also… Read More »
Mistakes To Avoid When Drafting Your Digital Estate Plan
Traditionally, people included common types of assets, such as their home or vehicle, in their estate plans. Although these assets still appear in estate plans today, more and more are also including digital assets. People often have more digital assets than they think. Whether it is a cryptocurrency wallet or social media profiles, these… Read More »
Four Things Wills Cannot Do
When many people consider estate planning, drafting a will is often the first thing that comes to mind. Sometimes, it is the only legal tool people think they need. While wills are important legal documents and all adults should have one, there are many functions wills cannot perform. Below, our St. Petersburg estate planning… Read More »
Pros And Cons Of Revocable Trusts
When planning your estate, a revocable trust will likely be among the options you consider. Revocable trusts are very popular and while they do have many advantages, they also have some drawbacks. Below, our St. Petersburg trust planning lawyer outlines the benefits and drawbacks of these estate planning tools. What are the Advantages of… Read More »
What Is The Spousal Elective Share Rule In Florida?
State law in Florida prohibits people from disinheriting their spouse. The spousal elective share in Florida gives the surviving spouse the right to claim a certain percentage of the deceased spouse’s elective estate if the surviving spouse received less than that. Surviving spouses are entitled to this share regardless of what is written in… Read More »
What Are The Advantages And Limitations Of A DPOA?
A durable power of attorney (DPOA) is a legal document that allows you, known as the principal, to designate someone, known as the agent, to manage your legal and financial affairs. Unlike other types of powers of attorney, the term ‘durable’ refers to the fact that the authority granted to the agent remains in… Read More »