The History of Trusts: A Journey Through Time
A knight handing a deed to a barrister before departing on a crusade.
Category Archives: Estate Planning
Anna Nicole Smith and J. Howard Marshall – A Tale of Marriage, Inheritance, and Legal Battles
What Happened? Anna Nicole Smith, a former model, married billionaire J. Howard Marshall in 1994, when she was 26 and he was 89. When Marshall passed away just over a […]
Michael Jackson’s Estate: Trusts and Troubles
What Happened? When Michael Jackson died in 2009, his estate was valued at around $500 million. He had established a will and a trust, but that didn’t stop legal challenges […]
The Effects of Getting Married on Your Estate Plan in Florida
Getting married is a joyous occasion that marks the beginning of a new chapter in life. However, marriage also brings significant legal and financial changes that may directly affect your […]
Heath Ledger’s Estate: Unintended Consequences
What Happened? After actor Heath Ledger passed away in 2008, his will, created years prior, left his estate to his parents and sisters. However, he hadn’t updated his will after […]
Estate Planning Tips for the Start of the Year
As we step into a new year, it’s a great time to reflect on our goals and make sure we are on track for a secure and organized future. One […]
Wills vs. Trusts: Which Is Right for You in Florida?
When it comes to estate planning in Florida, one of the most common questions people ask is whether they should create a will or a trust. Both documents are important […]
What Every Executor Needs to Know About Florida Probate Laws
Being named the executor of an estate is a significant responsibility. As an executor, you are tasked with ensuring that the decedent’s assets are properly distributed according to their will, […]
Understanding Property Tax Reassessments in Florida: Transfers That Trigger Reassessment and Exemptions
Florida’s property tax laws are designed to maintain fairness and consistency while allowing certain protections for property owners. When property ownership changes hands, the property’s taxable value may be reassessed, […]
Estate Planning for Blended Families: Key Considerations for Sarasota & Manatee County Residents
Estate planning is an essential step in securing your family’s future, but for blended families, the process can be more complex. A blended family often includes children from previous relationships, […]
How Florida Homestead Laws Apply to Mobile Homes
Introduction Florida’s homestead laws provide homeowners with significant benefits, from tax breaks to creditor protection. But how do these laws apply to mobile homes, which often occupy a gray area […]
Top 5 Reasons You Need a Living Trust in Florida
A living trust is an essential estate planning tool for many Floridians, offering significant benefits over a simple will. It allows you to manage your assets during your lifetime and pass them […]
Stieg Larsson’s Estate: Dying Without a Will
What Happened? When Swedish author Stieg Larsson, creator of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, passed away unexpectedly in 2004, he left no will. Larsson’s estate, valued at millions due […]
The Complete Guide to Estate Planning: Essential Steps to Protect Your Assets in Florida
Estate planning is essential to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and to minimize legal complications after your death. In Florida, as in most states, estate planning […]
FAQs About Wills and Trusts: Key Insights for Estate Planning
Wills and trusts are essential components of estate planning that help ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing. However, many people find the process of […]
Pablo Picasso’s Estate: The Decade-Long Dispute
What Happened? When Pablo Picasso passed away in 1973, he left behind an estate estimated at $250 million, including artworks, real estate, and other assets. However, Picasso did not leave […]
The Importance of Estate Planning: Protect Your Legacy and Loved Ones
Estate planning is one of the most important steps to ensure that your assets are protected and distributed according to your wishes after death. Despite its importance, many people delay […]
Estate Planning for New Parents: A Critical Step in Securing Your Family’s Future
Becoming a parent is one of the most life-changing experiences. While it’s a time filled with joy and excitement, it’s also a time when you need to make important decisions […]
What to Expect: Possible Estate Planning Law Changes in Florida for 2025
As 2025 approaches, Florida’s estate planning landscape may be subject to important legal changes. While no updates have been finalized yet, several potential adjustments could impact how Floridians manage their […]
Recent Updates to Florida Estate Planning Law: What You Need to Know in 2024 and Beyond
Estate planning laws are always evolving, and Florida is no exception. The state has recently introduced several updates that can have a significant impact on how Floridians manage and protect […]