Not all families look the same in Florida. Some are more traditional while others are non-traditional with a single parent, blended family or same sex parents. No matter how a family looks like, estate planning is important just the same; as it designates one wishes...
Complex Legal Challenges
Estate Planning
Charitable trusts an option that offers multiple benefits
Benefactors in Florida who are interested in donating money to charity may want to consider setting up a charitable trust. A charitable trust is a way to use liquid assets to donate to or start a charitable organization. The charity holds the assets for a time...
Pre-2021 estate planning moves for high-net-worth individuals
Regardless of the 2020 election outcome, the relationship between politics, policies and estate planning are inextricably linked. The last four years have created some advantages for wealthy individuals to reduce taxes and other related costs, thereby maximizing their...
Documents to include in an estate plan
Estate planning is an important part of planning for the future and for loved ones. Having a comprehensive estate plan can provide peace of mind for both the estate planner and their loved ones. For that reason, estate planners should be familiar with what estate...
Did someone have undue influence over your loved one?
Many people need help in their later years, especially when creating their estate plan. This complex task often leads people to turn to both loved ones and legal counsel for input and guidance. When, though, does assistance become undue influence, and what impact can...
What is the surrogate’s responsibility with an advance directive?
In Florida, many people are concerned that they will become ill or incapacitated and subjected to treatments they might not want. In other cases, they will need a person with their best interests in mind to oversee their affairs. With a living will and power of...
Removal of a Trustee in Florida
In Florida, a Revocable or Living Trust is a commonly used estate planning tool. This type of Trust allows assets held within the Trust to pass without probate. Such a Trust also allows assets to be held in the Trust and distributed to beneficiaries over time. In...
How Often Should You Have Your Estate Plan Reviewed By An Attorney?
“How often should I come back to see you for a review of my estate planning documents?” This is a question which clients frequently ask us in our estate practice. In order to answer this question, first we should state that there is no one answer that “fits all.” As...
Must the Trustee of a Florida Trust be a Resident of Florida or be Related by Blood or Marriage?
In our firm’s estate planning practice, we commonly help clients set up a “Living Trust” (also called a “Revocable Trust” or a “Revocable Living Trust”). In this blog, we will simply call it a “Trust.” Establishing a Trust has many benefits, including avoiding probate...
Florida Power of Attorney: Authorizing Super Powers
Under a Florida Durable Power of Attorney (“DPOA”), a principal person may give another person (often called an “agent”) the authority to act for the principal on various personal and financial matters. These may include authority such as selling real estate, paying...