Tampa Law Blog
Florida tops the list for boating accidents and fatalities
Every year since 2015, Florida has ranked No. 1 when it comes to the number of recreational boating accidents and on-the-water deaths. The U.S. Coast Guard has also reported that the Florida Keys see the highest number of these incidents in the state. In its 2019...
Compensation for Administering a Probate Estate in Florida
When a person dies resident in Florida, a formal probate estate is often required. In a formal probate, the probate court appoints a “Personal Representative.” Some people refer to this person as the “Executor” but the correct name in Florida is Personal...
Mistakes to avoid with beneficiary designations
Beneficiary designations may be a part of many people's Florida estate plans. Retirement accounts and life insurance policies are the assets most commonly passed using this form, and they are filled out when people set up the accounts or purchase the policy....
Electronic Wills Become Effective on July 1 in Florida
Florida’s new electronic Wills provisions become effective on July 1, 2020. This will mean that individuals who wish to sign their Will electronically can do so and the Wills will have the same force and effect as a traditional Will. To understand the importance of...
Testamentary trusts within estate planning
With increasing age, there begins a keen awareness of estate planning, especially in parts of the United States with older populations, like Florida. Estate planning helps ensure that your child is financially well-cared for after your passing. Planning is especially...
Limitations on Minor Children Inheriting Directly in Florida
Often parents and grandparents name minor children as beneficiaries under their Will or their life insurance or IRA. As a matter of law, children are allowed to inherit but how they receive that inheritance and how it is administered can pose challenges and...
Could a trust help you achieve your estate planning goals?
While most people know about the need to have a will, many are unaware of the other documents that could be part of their estate plan. Creating an estate plan as unique as your family and your goals often depends on exploring all your options, including wills and...
Cremation and Florida Estate Planning
When a person dies in Florida, a decision needs to be made whether to bury or cremate their remains. The decision is important, having both personal and financial implications. This blog will discuss some of the legal considerations that come into play when someone...
Rights of a Surviving Spouse: Florida’s Elective Share
In Florida, a surviving spouse has certain protections in the event his or her spouse dies and does not leave the surviving spouse an acceptable portion of the deceased spouse’s assets. In simple terms, these protections prevent a surviving spouse from being totally...
Dealing with digital assets in an estate plan
When creating an estate plan, people may need to address what to do with digital assets ranging from email accounts to Bitcoin balances and more. Like most states, Florida has enacted the Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act. With this in place,...
