Author name: Attorney Lori Vella

Family discussing trust administration with an estate planning lawyer.

What Is a Designated Representative in a Trust and Why It Matters

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When creating a trust, you might consider appointing a Designated Representative to simplify the administration process. This role is especially useful for complex trusts, trusts with multiple beneficiaries, or situations where minors or incapacitated individuals are involved. What Is a Designated Representative? A Designated Representative is someone appointed to act on behalf of one or […]

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efficient probate solutions for Florida mass tort and wrongful death cases

Efficient Probate Solutions for Florida Mass Tort and Wrongful Death Cases

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Handling mass tort or wrongful death cases can get complicated when a claimant has passed away. Without someone officially appointed as the Personal Representative (PR) or executor, cases can stall, leaving families waiting and firms unable to move forward. The Law Office of Lori Vella specializes in these situations, providing efficient and reliable probate solutions

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Managing digital assets in Florida estate planning

The Importance of Including Digital Assets in Florida Estate Planning

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Digital assets have become a critical component of modern life, and Florida residents should not overlook them when creating or updating their estate plans. From cryptocurrency to social media accounts, your digital presence carries both personal and financial value. Including digital assets in your estate plan ensures they are properly managed, protected, and distributed according

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Corporate Transparency Act Enforcement Halted Nationwide

Corporate Transparency Act Enforcement Halted Nationwide

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The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which went into effect on January 1, 2024, has been temporarily blocked nationwide by a Texas court ruling. This act requires certain business entities to disclose their beneficial ownership information to FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network). On December 3, 2024, a federal judge found the law likely unconstitutional, citing concerns

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Estate planning for Baby Boomers and the Gray Wave

Navigating the Gray Wave: Why Baby Boomers Need Thoughtful Estate Planning Now

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As Baby Boomers—those born between 1946 and 1964—reach retirement age, they’re driving a phenomenon known as the “Gray Wave.” This generational shift is resulting in one of the largest wealth transfers in history, bringing unique estate planning needs and considerations to the forefront. With Baby Boomers prioritizing legacy and family, the time for thoughtful and

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Why Directing the Sale of Your Homestead in a Will Could Strip Its Protection: Insights from Knadle v. Estate of Knadle

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Florida’s homestead protections are some of the strongest in the nation. They shield a person’s primary residence from creditors and provide special benefits for heirs. But what happens if your will directs the sale of that homestead? As the case of Knadle v. Estate of Knadle, 686 So. 2d 631 (Fla. 1st DCA 1997), shows,

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The estate netflix estate planning

The Estate: Laughing Through Family Feuds and Inheritance Battles!

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If you thought your family gatherings were stressful, wait until you watch The Estate! This Netflix comedy takes a wild, funny, and sometimes heartwarming look at what happens when a family fights over an inheritance. With its quirky characters and laugh-out-loud moments, The Estate is a must-watch for anyone who’s ever wondered how estate planning

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couple signing a prenuptial agreement in Florida.

Rachel Lindsay’s Reality Check: Why Florida Prenuptial Agreements Are a Must

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Rachel Lindsay, the attorney-turned-reality star, has made headlines not just for her time on television but now for a significant life event—paying alimony to her husband. This situation brings a critical issue into focus: the importance of prenuptial agreements, especially for high-profile individuals like Lindsay. For Florida residents, understanding how prenuptial agreements work can be

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estate planning hurricane florida

Estate Planning in the Wake of Hurricanes in Tampa Bay: How to Protect Your Assets and Loved Ones

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As Florida residents, we are no strangers to hurricanes, with two significant storms recently impacting the state and causing widespread damage. While we take precautions to safeguard our homes and loved ones during these events, we often overlook the importance of planning for the legal and financial consequences of such natural disasters. In the Tampa

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