No Contest Clauses in Florida

A No Contest Clause, or In Terrorem Clause, is a provision often used in Wills & Trusts stating that if a beneficiary disputes any part of the Will or Trust […]

Estate and Gift Tax Exemptions 2022

As of 2022, the following Estate and Gift tax exemptions are in effect: Estate Tax Exemption – $12,060,000 (U.S. Citizens and Residents) Annual Gift Tax Exemption – $16,000 (U.S. Citizens […]

Aretha Franklin's Estate

Aretha Franklin’s Will Found in Sofa

By Susan Teel Are you storing your will under the sofa cushions? Have you considered the best storage location for your will – your most important financial document?  Would you […]

Estate Tax Exemption 2019

Estate and Gift Tax Exemptions 2019

As of 2019, the following Estate and Gift tax exemptions are in effect: Estate Tax Exemption – $11,400,000 (U.S. Citizens and Residents) Annual Gift Tax Exemption – $15,000 (U.S. Citizens […]

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Information Required For Your Estate Plan

In preparing your estate planning documents, we will need the following information. Executor/Successor Trustee – The person or people who will be in charge of enforcing your wishes either through […]

Auto Accident

Probate & The Florida Wrongful Death Act

Wrongful death claims in Florida always require a probate administration. This is true whether it’s because of accident or medical malpractice.  Florida’s Wrongful Death Act requires a wrongful death action […]

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Estate and Gift Tax Exemptions for 2020

As of 2016, the following Estate and Gift tax exemptions are in effect: Estate Tax Exemption – $11,580,000 (U.S. Citizens and Residents) Annual Gift Tax Exemption – $15,000 (U.S. Citizens and […]

Do Trusts Really Avoid Probate?

The simple answer is no.  Trusts by themselves do not avoid probate, but they make probate avoidance possible.  Think of the trust agreement as a box.  Anything put in the […]

Estate Planning Review

When to Review Your Estate Plan

It is generally recommended that your estate plan be reviewed every 3 to 5 years. Additionally, it should be reviewed prior to or following any major life event. Some examples […]

Bayfront Park, Sarasota

Asset Protection

Asset Protection – Our assets are always at risk. Whether it’s through unknown creditors, accident, divorce, or acts of God; there will always be risks. However, this risk can be […]