Recent Blog Posts
U.S. Supreme Court Makes Major Decision Concerning Foreclosure Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
In late March, the US Supreme Court made a major decision concerning who qualifies as a “debt collector” under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (“the Act”). Specifically, the Court decided that a law firm representing a lender in foreclosure proceedings did not qualify as a debt collector under the Act. This decision will… Read More »
What Are Payable On Death Accounts, And How Do They Fit into My Estate Planning?
Transfer on death accounts—also known as Payable on death accounts in states like Florida—allow a couple to designate who receives their accounts and assets after the second person (with joint accounts) passes on as part of their estate planning. These accounts are governed by state law and are part of the account custodian (for… Read More »
Estate Planning Strategies for Singles Without Children (And Why They Are So Important)
As attorneys who regularly counsel clients on creating and maintaining their estate plans here in Florida, we see a lot of couples with children interested in estate planning, while also noticing that a number of single individuals without children haven’t really given the topic much thought. However, for a number of reasons, it is… Read More »
Rampant Consumer Fraud With Seafood Products Found
CBS News recently covered a shocking new consumer fraud investigation involving businesses selling mislabeled seafood. According to the expose, one in five fish samples tested at grocery stores, small markets and restaurants turned out to be mislabeled, possibly due to the U.S. importing (and failing to vigorously track) 90 percent of its seafood from… Read More »
As Florida Readies Itself for New Hemp Market, Businesses Scramble To Work with Attorneys on Business Formation
Now that hemp has been reclassified and legalized on a federal level (i.e. no longer technically considered a “controlled substance”), a number of Floridians are looking to enter the $22 billion market; buying, selling, and otherwise starting related businesses to make “CBD oil” and other hemp-based products, such as clothing, paper, plastic, and rope…. Read More »
Why You Must Have an Estate Plan in Place, Even If You Do Not Have Children
It is very important to note that, even if you do not have children, it is crucial that you have an estate plan in place—not only so that your assets do not pass to individuals you’d rather they not—but so that you do not find yourself in trouble, without assistance, should you become incapacitated…. Read More »
Protecting Foreign Assets in Estate Planning
As attorneys who regularly practice in estate planning, wills, and probate here in Florida, we work with a number of clients who have to take extra precautions in planning for their global assets. It is extremely important to take extra precautions and steps when you own foreign assets, especially when it comes to structuring… Read More »
How to Go About Incorporating Charitable Giving Into Your Estate Plan
As attorneys who regularly advise clients in the area of estate planning, we regularly receive a number of questions about charitable giving, especially as it overlaps with estate planning and donating at the time of death. Incorporating charitable giving into your estate plan can become complex under some circumstances. Below, we discuss some of… Read More »
Making Your Florida Estate Plan “Doomsday Ready”
Florida has unfortunately seen its fair share of devastation from Hurricane Michael and other hurricanes, resulting in absolutely terrible losses. Truthfully, losing everything in an instant can happen to anyone, at any time. Because of circumstances like these, everyone should have a plan in place in case they are suddenly forced out of their… Read More »
Is It Necessary To Hire A Probate Attorney?
Too many people do not give a thought to consulting a probate attorney, or putting together an estate plan, for that matter, until there is a sense of urgency and it is arguably too late. However, it is best to look into these issues as early as possible so that you are not rushed… Read More »