Brian finally decided to sign a Will. As he chatted with his estate planning attorney, they discussed other documents that typically make up a complete estate plan: a durable power of attorney and health care power of attorney or health care surrogate designation. They also discussed optional documents, like the Living Will. Brian was left wondering,...

In a previous blog, we discussed Florida’s electronic wills law. Though passed by the legislature, it was vetoed by Governor Scott. At the time, Nevada was the only state that permitted Wills to be in electronic form. Some important changes have happened since the previous blog article was published. First, let’s look at why Governor Scott...

Dan D. owned several businesses, including some with high potential liability. For example, his roller skating rink had been sued several times. His boat tours of the coast were enjoyable, but there was always the possibility of property damage, injury or even death. Some of his other business concerns carried fairly high levels of debt. In...

You may wish to protect your property from divorce, civil judgment, and creditors. One possible way to accomplish this is to use a DAPT - a Domestic Asset Protection Trust. However, only a handful of states allow this type of trust, and their laws vary. It’s important to research the best place for your circumstances to...

Probate – it seems like something most people want to avoid or minimize at the very least. However, a decedent’s property must pass through probate to heirs and beneficiaries, right? Not always. There are techniques for keeping your probate estate small that may help your heirs get their inheritance more quickly and pay less in expenses....

Estate plans should include a Last Will and Testament, a durable power of attorney, and a medical power of attorney. Some people also prepare other documents, like a Living Will or a trust. But, when you start working on your estate plan, how will you know what is the right trust for you? Consider Your Goals...

Esther shrugged as she read the headline, 4 Common Estate Planning Single Adult Errors and How to Avoid Them. She didn’t bother to read the article. Esther thinks because she is young, single with no kids, and a modest bank balance that she does not need an estate plan. Esther is wrong. Even single adults –...

Florida real estate ownership can take several forms. How the property is titled may affect the way in which the property is used or passed to a new owner. This is a big question when it comes to wealth preservation through real estate. The concepts discussed below are general in nature and may be otherwise affected...

Nuances can be important. Consider domicile vs. residence.  Two things can be similar but have subtle yet meaningful differences. For example, many people find it hard to understand the difference between a domicile and a residence. After all, both terms deal with where someone lives. However, choosing your domicile may impact your life significantly. Understanding the...

Some things work together separately but are enhanced when merged. Take music and lyrics. You might enjoy listening to just the music of a piece. You could also read the lyrics like a poem. Separately, they work. But together?  Beautiful music! Estate planning and wealth management are similar. They serve separate purposes. However, if coordinated, estate...