Category Archives: Estate Planning
Preserving Family Harmony When Passing On Wealth In Florida
Estate planning in Florida is about much more than executing legal documents and transferring assets. It is about protecting familial relationships. The real risk for high-net worth families is not probate or taxes, but disputes arising between those you love the most. Without careful planning, passing down wealth can result in misunderstandings, tension, and… Read More »
FAQs About Estate Planning In Florida
When managing your finances, estate planning is a critical step. It is also one that is often overlooked. Like all states, Florida law determines who will receive your property after you pass away. By drafting an estate plan, you can ensure that your wishes are known and will be respected. When embarking on estate… Read More »
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 »
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 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 »
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 »
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 »