Category Archives: Wills Probate
What Happens If A Beneficiary Passes Away Before The Testator?
When Ivana Trump, millionaire and ex-wife of former U.S. President Donald Trump, passed away in 2022, much was said about the contents of her last will and testament. Many of the bequests were in line with what was to be expected – money and assets divided amongst her children, friends, and various charitable organizations…. Read More »
Do I Have To Pay The Mortgage On A Home Inherited In Probate?
The circumstances surrounding probate are usually somber. If you are a beneficiary of an estate you were likely close to the person who passed away, and you potentially have to deal with several end-of-life matters, not to mention the emotional toll. One of the only positive things for a beneficiary who becomes involved in… Read More »
Basics Everyone Should Know Regarding Inheritances And Estate Law
The first thing that comes to mind when many people think of estate planning is a last will and testament. A” will” is, certainly, a very important tool utilized by many in order to manage their estates. However, the will is really just the tip of the iceberg. There are many estate planning tools… Read More »
My Loved One Never Made A Will….Now What?
No one relishes the thought of life coming to an end. Particularly when we are younger, or perhaps just starting a family of our own. People tend to set their minds to the building of things – not on the eventuality of putting things away. However, at some point everyone must pass on, and… Read More »
Naming A Minor As A Beneficiary: Why It Might Be A Mistake
The most pressing matter on nearly everyone’s mind when they go to establish their estate plan, is that they want to ensure that they are properly preserving assets for their descendants. While the desire to have our estates go directly to the enjoyment and benefit of our children or grandchildren is only natural, under… Read More »
Are Surviving Spouses Guaranteed Rights In Florida Probate?
The closing of a life is rarely anticipated. Even when a long illness has set in for one spouse, it is understandable that many couples do not want to spend the little time they have left scouring through legal estate paperwork. The combination of these realities results in many newly widowed individuals unsure of… Read More »
Estate Planning And The Florida Guardianship Process
Proper estate planning is a key way to protect your estate against many things – including a court ordered guardianship. Florida is a state that is popular with retirees. Our population, more than most, does need the provisions in Florida law that allow a family member, or professional guardian, to act as a legal… Read More »
Florida Courts Consider: Is A Child Conceived After Their Father’s Death Entitled To Social Security Benefits?
The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals recently decided to not rule on a question presented to that court: does a child who was conceived after their Father’s death qualify to receive Social Security Surviving Child Insurance Benefits? Instead, the court stated that the Florida Supreme Court was a better venue to issue clarity… Read More »
What Is A Valid Will In Florida, And What Happens If Someone Dies Without One?
There’s an old saying that reflects “only two things in life are certain: death, and taxes.” Fortunately for many governments, and unfortunately for the layman, often family members who are left behind after a loved one passes will be paying taxes on the death as well. Proper estate planning tailored to your specific assets… Read More »
The “101” On Personal Representatives In Florida Probate
If you’ve recently found yourself thrown into the Florida Probate process, or want to educate yourself ahead of such an event, you have come to the right place. Most estates must go through at least some form of probate in Florida, and the court process is often long and complicated. However, there are certain… Read More »