Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Three Legal Documents All Parents In Florida Need
Becoming a parent will change every aspect of your life. Not only do you have to provide for your children today, but it is just as critical to protect them from the unexpected of tomorrow. Many parents think they have a lot of time to plan for their children’s future, or they make informal… Read More »
Can A Beneficiary Serve As A Personal Representative?
When you are drafting your estate plan, there are many roles you must consider. The personal representative you choose is an important one, as this is the individual who will be responsible for administering your estate after you pass away. You also name beneficiaries, who are the individuals or other entities, such as charities,… Read More »
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Probate?
Unless assets are titled in a manner to avoid the probate process, probate is necessary to distribute assets to the beneficiaries. Probate is simply the legal process with court oversight in which estates are administered and settled. There is often a lot of misinformation regarding probate. Many people mistakenly believe the process is relatively… Read More »
Four Benefits Of Drafting A Trust
Many people who are considering drafting their estate plan know that it typically begins with drafting a will. Some people believe that a will is all they need. However, your estate plan may need more than just a will. There are other documents you may want to draft as well, including a trust. Including… Read More »
How To Protect Family Heirlooms From Probate
Of all the property you own, family heirlooms may hold the most value. Whether the value is sentimental or monetary, you likely want to protect these family treasures as much as possible. If you overlook your heirlooms when preparing your estate plan, they may become susceptible to disputes, mismanagement, or outright loss. Below, our… Read More »
What Happens When There Are No Heirs To An Estate In Florida?
You have received a phone call from the hospital, a neighbor, or even the police. They tell you that someone you knew has died, and they cannot locate any of their family members. Maybe you are a close friend that may be able to help, or maybe you have handled financial or estate matters… Read More »
What To Bring To Your Consultation With An Estate Planning Lawyer
Estate planning is a thoughtful matter you can do for your loved ones. If you ever become incapacitated or upon your death, an estate plan can ensure that your and your loved ones’ interests are protected. Clearly, estate planning is very important but it is not something you should attempt on your own. A… Read More »
What Property Is Exempt From Probate In Florida?
In Florida, when someone passes away their estate, meaning the assets and liabilities they left behind, must typically go through the probate process. Probate is a legal process that has many purposes. It is intended to give creditors the opportunity to make claims against the estate for unrecovered debt, and to ensure that remaining… Read More »
What Causes Delays During Probate?
Some people plan their estate with the primary goal of helping their loved ones avoid the probate process after they pass away. They do this because probate can be a long and costly process. Not only can probate reduce the amount of assets left in the estate for beneficiaries, but it can also mean… Read More »
What Are The Different Types Of Power Of Attorney In Florida?
There are many different tools you can use to plan for the future, and a power of attorney is one of them. A power of attorney gives someone else, known as an agent, the authority to make decisions on your behalf in the event that you are unable to make decisions for yourself. An… Read More »