Estate planning is of critical importance to all Floridians. While research continues to show us that many individuals mistakenly choose not to plan ahead, we often find that this comes from a lack of understanding. Often, potential clients share with us a number of reasons why planning remains unimportant. From “I don’t have enough assets to...
Did you know that studies continue to share that the majority of Americans today do not have any estate planning? This means they have not created the lifetime documents, as well as the estate planning tools, that can ensure they are protected against uncertainty in their future. All too often in our office, we meet with...
Many of our clients have significant questions when it comes to the probate process. From whether they can avoid it and why it matters to how to find the right attorney who will ensure beneficiaries are protected.  We spend much of our time answering these critical questions about the probate process in Florida. You have probably...
After passing away during a coronary bypass surgery in 2012, members of Neil Armstrong’s estate held Mercy Health-Fairfield Hospital culpable for the complications that led to his death. This week, it was reported that Armstrong’s estate was given $6 Million in a confidential wrongful death settlement. Armstrong’s widow and estate executor, Carol, agreed to the settlement...
Certain events in our lives often trigger an estate plan review. For example, if you get married or divorced, it is very likely you will want to change your Will and other estate planning documents. But what happens if you just find yourself estranged from your spouse? Can you change your estate plan to disinherit your...
We all own things. But when we die, where does our property go? How will our final debts be paid? This is where probate comes in. After someone dies, their Will usually is submitted to a probate court.  Even if there was no Will, the probate court will likely appoint a Personal Representative. What follows is...
When country singer Glen Campbell died in 2017, he probably did not foresee the manner in which his family subsequently chose to handle his estate. He did leave a Will. However, three of his eight children were specifically excluded from the Will, which led them to contest the Will’s validity. Now, Mr. Campbell’s estate is being...
The personal representative of an estate has an important job. One of the most important parts of that job is locating and gathering probate assets. Finding a decedent’s car and house may not be hard, but what about items that are stored somewhere, such as personal property, cash or bitcoins? The job may be harder when...
Receiving a court notice in the mail can be a little unnerving. Many people have had little to no experience with legal proceedings. For example, Danielle received a notice of probate by certified mail, return receipt requested. She was not sure what action she was supposed to take, if any. What she does now may be...
During an accident or natural disaster, it may be difficult or impossible to determine which victim lived longer than the other. This type of situation can cause serious consequences for beneficiaries and contingent beneficiaries. Understanding the Florida Simultaneous Death Law may also make a difference in the estate planning choices you make. Simultaneous Death Law: What...
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