Many Floridians who rely on a family member or friend for daily care wish to provide for them in their estate plan. While this gesture comes from a place of gratitude, it can sometimes lead to disputes from other heirs who challenge the gift. To ensure others honor...
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Trusts
Lost or destroyed wills in Florida: Can they still be valid?
You probably have a "safe place" for your most important documents. It could be a specific desk drawer or a fireproof box in the closet. Families in Tampa often face a sudden panic when that safe place turns up empty after a loved one passes away. They know a will...
Who needs to select a successor trustee?
Trustees help manage trust resources. Some people create trusts for their protection when they age. They immediately pass certain types of responsibility to another person who acts as trustee. They choose an individual they know or hire a professional fiduciary to...
Where should people store their estate plans?
Creating an estate plan gives an individual peace of mind and control over their legacy. Adults of sound mind have the right to leave instructions for the distribution of their property and the care of their dependent family members. They may draft wills or establish...
Does Florida recognize electronic wills?
Digital technology has made it easier than ever before for people to share information and communicate with one another. It can help people handle matters that they find challenging or unpleasant, like estate planning. There are many ways in which modern technology...
This popular estate planning tool isn’t available in Florida
Few things can undermine an individual's legacy more quickly or thoroughly than probate litigation. Family members disappointed about their share of the estate can initiate a probate lawsuit where they challenge the estate plan or the conduct of the personal...
Do I have to pay taxes on trust funds?
Trusts are popular financial and estate planning tools which offer a structured way to manage and distribute assets. When used wisely, these tools help planners meet these goals. However, a poorly drafted trust can result in unforeseen consequences, such as a large...
Notifying creditors during Florida probate proceedings
Estate administration in Florida puts a lot of responsibility on the personal representative or executor of the estate. They have to locate and review estate planning documents. They have to secure and value estate resources. Once they have fulfilled all of the...
What should you know about trusts?
People who are setting up an estate plan have a lot to consider. These plans need to detail end-of-life care plans, and they also need to provide instructions for how to handle assets after the creator passes away. If you’re creating an estate plan, you should...
How can people protect their assets while estate planning?
Estate planning can be a very simple or a relatively complex process. Someone's circumstances and personal goals influence how many different documents they require and how complex their estate plan could become. Those with valuable property in their names often worry...