Many peoples’ first experience with the probate process comes during the extremely difficult time following the death of a loved one. Having a basic understanding of the process can help to alleviate some of the stress and pain you’re feeling, and a qualified probate attorney in your area is always the best source of information. Here is some basic information to get you started…
read moreLet’s kick of the New Year by getting down to the basics!
Most people understand that having some sort of an estate plan is a good thing. However, many of us don’t take the steps to have an estate plan prepared because we don’t understand the nuances between wills and trusts – and dying without either.
read moreLet’s keep up the momentum! Have you ever been confused about the differences between wills and trusts? If so, you’re not alone. While it’s always wise to contact experts like us, it’s also important to understand the basics. Here’s a quick and simple reference guide:
read moreConsider these common misconceptions about estate planning!
read moreWhen a loved one dies, their estate must be settled. While most people want the settlement process to be done ASAP, probate can take anywhere from 18 and 24 months. This time delay can cause a great deal of stress and frustration. Here are the 5 most common reasons probate takes so long:
read moreDo I REALLY need a Will? You may not think you need a Will, but you really do! And here is why…
read moreIn this post we take a closer look at probate administration. In estate planning circles, the word “probate” often comes with a starkly negative connotation. Indeed, for many people — especially those with larger estates — financial planners recommend trying to keep property out of probate whenever possible. Let’s take a brief look…
read morePeople often set up bank accounts or real estate so that they own it jointly with a spouse or other family member. The appeal of joint tenancy is that when one owner dies, the other will automatically inherit the property without it having to go through probate. Joint property is perceived to be easy to setup since it can be done at the bank when opening an account or title company when buying real estate.
read moreToday we will be focusing on newly married individuals. If this is you then now is the perfect time to start working on an estate plan! As newlyweds, you may not have a list of your accounts, but you’ve effectively just done a working inventory of your possessions—as you’ve figured out how to consolidate two households into one. You’ve already been working on the new banking and shared responsibility of bills and taxes and so forth.
read moreEstate planning is the process of developing a strategy for the care and management of your estate if you become incapacitated or upon your death. One commonly known purpose of estate planning is to minimize taxes and costs, including taxes imposed on gifts, estates, generation skipping transfer and probate court costs. However, your plan must also name someone who will make medical and financial decisions for you if you cannot make decisions for yourself. You also need to consider how to leave your property and assets while considering your family’s circumstances and needs.
read moreHelping Floridians with probate administration, estate planning, business services, and guardianship matters!