Formal administration and summary administration are two forms of probate used when a deceased person’s assets do not have a “payable on death” provision, joint owner, or beneficiary designation. Summary administration is only available when the total value of the…
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What is Considered a Valid Will in Florida?
What is a Valid Will in Florida? A will is a document that determines who receives a person’s property when they pass away. Florida law requires that a will must be signed by the testator (the person writing the will)…
Posted in Estate Planning, Will
Will Your Property and Assets Go Through Probate?
What Property and Assets Go Through Probate in Florida? Any asset owned by someone who has passed away is subject to probate in Florida. The exception to this rule is property that had a named beneficiary or rights of survivorship.…
Probate or Estate Administration
Probate, also called “estate administration,” is a court process that transfers assets owned by a deceased person to the beneficiaries named in their Will. In probate, the person who died is referred to as the “decedent.” Anything that the decedent…
Why You May Need a Revocable Trust
Do You Need a Revocable Trust? Everyone should have a durable power of attorney that appoints someone to act for them should they become incapacitated, however, in some circumstances it is not enough. In these cases, a revocable trust can…
Posted in Estate Planning, Living Trust
Have You Reviewed Your Estate Plan Recently?
Estate plans should evolve over time, it is important to keep your living documents current by reviewing your estate plan every 5 years, or whenever you or your family or beneficiaries have a major life event. The following points should…
Body Composting is Gaining Momentum
Have you ever wondered how you can be more environmentally conscious even in death? In some states, you can, by being composted. Seth Viddal and one of his employees have built a “vessel they hope will usher in a more…
Posted in End of Life, Final Wishes
What is a Will?
No one wants to think about dying and for some of us, death is a subject that we would rather not discuss. We believe that there is no hurry to consider the issue and that we have plenty of time…
Posted in Estate Planning, Will
Steps to Take When You Lose a Loved One
The loss of a family member is an incredibly difficult time. In addition to coping with your grief and potentially planning a memorial service or funeral, there are usually many financial decisions that will need to be made. How do…
What Should I Include in My Estate Plan?
Key elements of an estate plan: An experienced estate attorney can develop personalized strategies and documents that meet your needs. This could include a: Will. A legal document that defines the distribution of your property and the care of any…
Posted in Estate Planning, Will
