Losing a loved one is difficult enough without unexpected phone calls from strangers claiming there is money waiting to be claimed. Lately, many families have been receiving calls from companies or “asset recovery vendors” saying that the State of Florida is holding unclaimed funds belonging to a deceased family member. These callers often promise to […]
Many people assume that if they pass away without a Will, the State of Florida will simply “take everything.” Others believe their spouse or children will automatically inherit exactly what they want them to have. The truth is more complicated, and often surprising. If you die without a valid Will in Florida, your estate is
When someone passes away, it’s common for the family to suddenly realize they don’t actually know where all the money is kept. Maybe the Will mentions bank accounts or stocks… but there’s nothing in the house. No statements. No lists. No paperwork. If this is happening to you, take a breath — you can find
How to Find a Loved One’s Bank Accounts, Stocks, and Insurance After They Pass Away Read More »
The passing of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan (Terry Bollea) on July 24, 2025, has sparked not just grief—but also controversy. Within hours of his death, rumors began circulating about dramatic estate moves allegedly made by his widow, Sky Daily. Tampa-based radio personality Bubba the Love Sponge claimed on-air that Sky took three major steps within
When You Have a Trust, Do You Still Need Probate? Many people create trusts to avoid probate and ensure a smooth transfer of assets after death. However, what many trustees don’t realize is that just because assets are in a trust doesn’t mean you can immediately distribute them without risk. Florida law allows creditors to
Do You Need Probate If You Have a Trust? Read More »
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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When someone passes away, one of the first questions that comes up is who has the right to bring a probate case. In Florida, this is referred to as “standing,” and it determines who has the legal authority to initiate the probate process. Whether the decedent had a will or passed away without one, Florida
Who Has Standing to Bring a Probate in Florida? Read More »
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
Efficient Probate Solutions for Florida Mass Tort and Wrongful Death Cases Read More »
As of July 19, 2024, New York State has introduced Transfer on Death (TOD) deeds—a groundbreaking development for property owners. This new law allows property owners to transfer their real estate directly to beneficiaries upon death, bypassing the often lengthy and costly probate process. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know. Understanding the
Key Insights on New York’s Transfer on Death (TOD) Deeds Read More »
Navigating probate procedures, especially for those with ties to Camp Lejeune, can be complex. That’s where we come in.
Navigating Probate: Camp Lejeune Veterans and Beyond Read More »
