Recent Blog Posts
Possible grounds for challenging a valid will
A will is a deceased family member’s attempt to reach out and speak to his or her loved ones one final time. With this document the testator explains in detail what he or she wants to do with all of his or her worldly possessions. This can include property, vehicles, jewelry and financial accounts… Read More »
How much power can be granted with a Florida power of attorney?
Many Fort Myers, Florida, residents either have a close relative or a friend who refuses to develop an estate plan. These people are quite stubborn, and despite advice from friends and family, they believe their financial situation is under control. Many have even failed to take the simple step of giving a close family… Read More »
The benefits of a special needs trust
Many senior citizens in America, including those here in the South Florida area, depend on government programs such as Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid for their benefits. Some of these residents may be physically or mentally disabled and unable to care for themselves and really need their coverage. But, what happens if this mentally… Read More »
Can Florida guardians terminate their legal responsibilities?
Many Florida families have found themselves in the unfortunate situation where they needed to find a guardian to take care of a senior family member’s legal and personal affairs. This is usually because the senior is no longer able to make his or her own decisions anymore, especially when it comes to estate planning…. Read More »
What critical items must be included in a Florida will?
Death is a subject that no Florida resident likes to talk about. Whether referring to themselves or friends and family members, the topic of death rarely, if ever, makes it into the day’s conversation. That’s because the topic is unpleasant and it reminds people of their own mortality. However, there is at least one… Read More »
What does a Florida court consider probate assets?
The process of carrying on with one’s life after the loss of a beloved family member can be traumatic for many Lee County, Florida, residents. Once the funeral and burial services are finished, this is usually followed by the process of gathering the deceased’s possessions and determining what to do with them. Items of… Read More »
What is the role of a guardian in Ft. Myers?
Guardianships and how they’re structured is an issue that frequently arises in Fr. Myers and throughout the state. There are often misconceptions about how a guardian goes about his or her duties and what it is the guardian actually does. Understanding various factors regarding guardianships is important when there are concerns about them, and… Read More »
What are the Florida statutes for will execution?
Under Florida law, there are certain factors that must be considered when it comes to will execution. These must be followed for the will to be valid after the testator’s death. Understanding these laws and adhering to them will help ensure that the decedent’s wishes will be met. The will must be in writing,… Read More »
Providing for a disabled heir with a special needs trust
Many Florida residents beginning the estate planning process have questions about how to provide for a family member with a physical or mental disability. If the disabled individual is receiving benefits from need-based government programs like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income, a large bequest in a will or trust could end up disqualifying him… Read More »
When can a personal representative be removed?
No one necessarily expects or hopes to face issues during the estate administration process. Unfortunately, sometimes issues can come up during probate that can matter greatly to those involved in the administration of the estate. In certain cases, the work of the personal representative responsible for the estate may be called into question. However,… Read More »