Putting off the creation of a last will or estate plan can make things much more difficult for your family, particularly if something happens to you before you take the time to create one. If you have already created a will or have decided it is time to do so, it's important that you ensure you have all of the proper information in your last will and estate plan.
What are the trustee’s responsibilities in a revocable trust?
One of the most powerful estate planning tools a Florida resident has at their disposal is a revocable trust. Also known as a “living trust” and “revocable living trust,” the revocable trust has at least two critical people involved: the trustee (the person who holds title to property in the trust) and the beneficiary (the person designated to benefit from the trust).
Mistakes that can make grieving even worse for a surviving spouse
The death of a spouse can, of course be emotionally devastating. But there are estate planning mistakes that can make the grieving even worse for those left behind.
Florida law prevents you from disinheriting your spouse
After being married for years or even decades, some couples grow apart instead of growing together. There are many issues that can deteriorate the spousal relationship, ranging from infidelity to substance abuse or just a change in personality. If one spouse becomes ill, they may resent the other spouse's seeming inability to provide a decent level of care. In some cases, someone with a serious illness may simply resent that their spouse is healthy and will outlive them.
A year after Aretha's death, court takes over estate administration
Aretha Franklin died nearly a year ago. Unfortunately for her family, the late singer left behind no will to explain how her substantial assets would be distributed.
Wills and beneficiary designations are critical in an estate plan
All adults need to have an estate plan in place, however many think that they don't have enough assets or they are too young. Because you never know when something will happen, it is best to be prepared so that your family isn't left wondering what to do should the unthinkable happen.
The role of undue influence in will contests, probate litigation
The old adage holds that the only things you can count on are death and taxes, but we know that’s not true. We can also count on gorgeous sunrises over our Brevard County beaches, annoying TV commercials, red lights when you’re in a hurry and losing track of stuff you put away for safekeeping.
