Author name: Attorney Lori Vella

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Pandemic Planning-Wills, Trusts and More

People under the age of 65 account for more than 20% of COVID-related deaths in the US. However, young people are less likely to have estate planning documents, like a will or advanced directive, in place than those of older adults. This means that many people who are dying from coronavirus likely do not have documents in place to dictate who cares for their children or what happens to their home or money.

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What could possibly go wrong if I do not make plans?

This is National Estate Planning Awareness Week. As an estate planning attorney, it’s my job every day to educate my community about issues they may face in the future with respect to their assets, family, debt and more, if they do not get their plan in writing.

The very best way to learn anything is to learn examples, especially about what could go wrong. So this week, let’s go over some contingencies to highlight why you should start thinking about your own plan.

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Law Office of Lori Vella

Wondering What “Estate Planning” Is?

Did you know that this week is National Estate Planning Awareness Week? In our line of business, we often hear confusion over the term “estate planning,” and the belief that it is only for those with grand, luxurious estates. That could not be further from the truth! Don’t get me wrong, estate planning does greatly assist wealthy individuals to save taxes by employing creative ideas, but it is useful for anyone over the age of 18. That’s right, anyone!

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Parents’ Guide to Legal Documents to Care for their Kids

If you are confused about setting up legal documents and plans for your minor kids, you are not alone. Most parents know they need to do something, but experience confusion over making the right choice and fear over how much it costs to accomplish their goals.

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Parents of 18 year olds should know

Parents in the Dark with 18 Year Olds

Turning eighteen is a special time in life.  High school graduation, new job, and possibly college.  While your son or daughter may still seem like a “child” to you, turning eighteen brings about many legal changes for your newly-minted adult.  But, there are some things that parents of 18 year olds must know.  Parents of

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Not the Best Idea to List Minors as Account Beneficiaries

Parents of young children often wonder if it is the best idea list their minors as account beneficiaries. Usually, a parent will list the spouse as the main beneficiary, but would like to name children as a contingent beneficiary, in the event something happened to both parents. This practice of naming minors as account beneficiaries, along with a few others set forth below, will cause many unintended consequences.

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Tampa Teachers Writing Wills as “Back to School” Planning

Summertime is known as the perfect, relaxing time. Beaches, camping, family vacations and late nights. But unfortunately, 2020 hit us with the unexpected. This year, as we go back to school, teachers are not writing school supply lists…they are writing their own Wills! It is a terribly anxious time for our Florida teachers and out heart goes out to all of them.

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