Any Florida resident who wants to avoid having the state make important decisions about the distribution of his or her property after death can draft estate-planning documents. That will also spare that person's loved ones the burden of complicated decision-making...
Estate Planning
Starting a blended family requires revised estate planning
When families in Florida are joined in second or third marriages, blended families are formed. Along with the excitement and adjustments to get used to the new dynamics with children of both spouses, and potential children together, estate planning is sometimes...
Should advance directives form part of estate planning?
The unpredictability of life is likely what motivates people in Florida to create advanced directives. This is typically done as part of a person's estate planning. The purpose of advanced directives is to provide a way for people to document their wishes related to...
What are the inheritance rights of a surviving spouse in Florida?
When a person dies, his or her spouse has certain rights to the deceased person's assets. These rights are governed by the inheritance law of the state and might override the contents of a will. In Florida, a surviving spouse who was disinherited might be entitled to...
Who is responsible for debt when a Florida parent dies?
When parents pass away, their surviving children sometimes discover unpaid debts of which they were unaware. This often leaves the question of whether children in Florida are responsible for the debts of their deceased parents. The answer to this depends on the types...
3 things to remember about moving with a will
You've always loved moving, but you settled down for a long time when your children were born. Now that they're older, you decided that it's time to move to a new home once again. While you do love your home in your state, you've decided to move to somehere warmer....
Estate planning lawyers and succession planning for businesses
Some company owners feel comfortable with the thought that their businesses are their retirement plans and their children will take over upon their deaths. Unfortunately, too many companies in Florida end up having to close their doors because proper succession...
Should a Florida resident have a will or a trust — or both?
Some people procrastinate when it comes to estate planning because it all seems so confusing. What is the difference between a will and a trust, and should they draft as a will or establish a trust? Florida residents may learn that just about every person needs a...
Florida residents can get help with drafting revocable trusts
There is often no shortage of advice from friends and family in conversations about estate planning. Residents of Florida who have related questions may find more value in the advice provided by professionals. Living trusts are often recommended, but different...
Updating estate plans after Florida divorce is important step
The entire process of a divorce is typically taxing, and the stress will likely continue to escalate for a while after it is finalized. At the start of a newly single Florida resident's future, there may be debts, decrees and deeds to implement, retitle and reorganize...