Estate Planning

Florida estate plan for parents

Why Every Parent Needs a Florida Estate Plan (Even If You Have Few Assets)

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Becoming a parent means preparing for the unexpected—not just for yourself, but for your child’s future. Many assume estate planning is only for the wealthy, but in reality, every parent, regardless of financial status, needs a plan to protect their family. Why Estate Planning Matters for Parents Naming a Guardian for Your ChildIf something happens […]

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Guardianship vs. Supported Decision-Making in Florida | Law Office of Lori Vella

Choosing the Right Legal Support: Understanding Guardianship, Guardianship Advocacy, and Supported Decision-Making in Florida

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Finding the Right Balance of Support and Independence When a loved one has a developmental disability or struggles with decision-making, families often wonder what legal options are available to help them. In Florida, there are three main choices: Guardianship, Guardianship Advocacy, and Supported Decision-Making (SDM). Each option provides a different level of assistance and legal

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pretermitted spouse rights in Florida estate planning.

Navigating Pretermitted Spouse Rights in Florida

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A pretermitted spouse is a spouse who marries the decedent after the decedent has executed their will and is not provided for in that will. Florida Statutes §732.301 protects pretermitted spouses by granting them the right to inherit as if the decedent had died intestate (without a will). However, this right does not apply in

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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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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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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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