In Florida, the probate process is a legal procedure that ensures the orderly distribution of a deceased person's assets and settles any outstanding debts. It can be a complex and lengthy process, involving various steps and requirements. 1. How do I initiate probate?...
Estate Planning And Probate
Essential elements to include in your estate planning documents
Embarking on the journey of estate planning is a wise and caring step toward securing your family’s future. Sometimes, clients who are eager to get things done quickly forget to include crucial details when preparing their documents. To ensure you don’t miss a beat,...
When is the right time to start estate planning?
Estate planning often takes a back seat in people's lives. In fact, Caring.com conducted a poll in 2023 and found that people 55 years old and higher were the group most likely to have an estate plan in place. The estate planning process involves making decisions...
Does probate always follow the will exactly?
Probate and wills are important components of estate planning and inheritance processes. When someone passes away, their will outlines how their assets should be distributed among their heirs and beneficiaries. The probate process is necessary for verifying the...
How to avoid common estate planning mistakes
Estate planning is an important step to ensure your family receives assets according to your wishes after you are gone. However, many people make avoidable mistakes during the planning process. Understanding common mistakes can help you prevent them, which will offer...
How should you discuss estate planning with your elderly parents?
As parents grow older, it becomes increasingly important to have honest conversations about their estate planning. Although discussing these matters can be uncomfortable, having these conversations now can provide peace of mind and clarity for both parents and their...
Selecting the best guardian for your estate plan
When it comes to estate planning, choosing a guardian is one of the most important decisions for the children you leave behind. This person or persons will assume responsibility for minor children and possibly even manage the estate assets until those children reach...
What do your loved ones need access to after you die?
An estate plan may make the probate process easier on your loved ones. Immediately following your death, however, what might your family need? Start gathering up some of the following information so that your death will not burden those you love the most. Does someone...
What does it mean to disinherit a spouse?
When you create your estate plan, you will include information about to whom you want your assets to go. You can name anyone you want and distribute your property as you desire. However, if you choose to leave your spouse out of your will, you may have problems. State...
Why it pays to have an estate plan regardless of if you have kids
Many people in Florida put off making an estate plan until they experience a major life event, such as a marriage or the birth of a child. However, if you count yourself among them, you may want to reconsider delaying the creation of your estate plan, even if you...