estate planning

Florida estate plan for parents

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

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

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

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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Understanding Florida's Homestead Election and Deadlines | Law Office of Lori Vella

Understanding Florida’s Homestead Election and Its Critical Deadlines

In Florida, the homestead election allows a surviving spouse to choose between two options regarding the decedent’s homestead property: Life Estate: The default provision grants the surviving spouse a life estate in the homestead property. This means the spouse can live in the property for the remainder of their life. Elective Share: Alternatively, the surviving

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The estate netflix estate planning

The Estate: Laughing Through Family Feuds and Inheritance Battles!

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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Enhancing Asset Protection in Florida: The Case for Multi-Member LLCs

When it comes to asset protection in Florida, structuring your business correctly is crucial. The debate between single-member and multi-member LLCs often surfaces, especially in light of significant case law that has shaped how asset protection is viewed. In this post, we’ll delve into why having more than one member in your LLC can provide

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Shannen Doherty's Final Wishes: A Cautionary Tale About Funeral Planning

Shannen Doherty’s Final Wishes: A Cautionary Tale About Funeral Planning

The recent headlines about actress Shannen Doherty’s detailed funeral plans, including a list of people she didn’t want to attend, have sparked widespread discussion. While it may seem unusual or even shocking, Doherty’s actions highlight the importance of careful estate planning and making your final wishes known. Why Planning Matters Estate planning isn’t just about

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Protecting Your Trust with Marital Agreements in Florida

Protecting Your Trust with Marital Agreements in Florida

Understanding Marital Agreements in Florida Prenuptial Agreements These are contracts made before marriage that outline the division of assets and financial responsibilities if the marriage ends in divorce or death. Postnuptial Agreements Similar to prenuptial agreements, these are executed after marriage and serve the same purpose. Both types of agreements can include provisions to protect

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Piggy bank breaking for Medicaid spend down

How to Spend Down to Get the Most Medicaid Coverage

You may have heard about a friend needing to “spend down” their money to qualify for a long-term care facility.  “Spending down” is a technical term attorneys use to describe how to qualify for Medicaid benefits. This blog will help explain what “spend down” means and why it may be an option you want to

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