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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, settling debts, and ensuring that the estate is administered according to the laws of Florida. The probate process, which is the legal procedure for managing…
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, potentially leading to an increase in property taxes. However, not all transfers result in reassessment. Knowing which transfers trigger a reassessment and which are exempt…
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, stepchildren, and sometimes even grandchildren or other relatives. With so many individuals involved, creating an estate plan that addresses the needs of everyone can be…
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 in real estate? This article will clarify how homestead laws intersect with mobile homes in Florida, focusing on eligibility, protection, and practical tips for owners….
Estate planning is one of the most important aspects of securing your future and protecting your family’s well-being. While it’s possible to navigate the estate planning process on your own, working with a local estate planning attorney in Sarasota can ensure that your plans are legally sound, tailored to your needs, and minimize potential complications…
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 on to your heirs without the need for probate. Here are the top five reasons why creating a living trust could be the best option…
If you own property in more than one state, including Florida, you may face the prospect of ancillary probate when you pass away. Ancillary probate is the legal process required to transfer ownership of out-of-state assets to beneficiaries. This can add time, expense, and complexity to the estate administration process. However, with proper estate planning,…
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 to the success of his books, became the center of a legal dispute between his longtime partner, Eva Gabrielsson, and his father and brother, who…
As a Florida property owner, one of the key aspects of estate planning you need to understand is the concept of ancillary probate. While most people are familiar with the general probate process, ancillary probate applies when you own property in multiple states, including Florida. This process can add layers of complexity and cost to…
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 involves creating a comprehensive plan for how your assets will be managed and distributed, and it often includes documents such as wills, trusts, powers of…
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 creating these legal documents overwhelming. At Bart Scovill, PLC, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you better understand wills and…
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 a will, and his complex estate became the subject of a lengthy legal battle among his six heirs. The lack of a clear plan for…
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 creating an estate plan, often assuming it’s unnecessary or too complicated. However, having a well-crafted estate plan is essential for everyone, regardless of the size…
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate, ensuring that their assets are distributed to heirs and any debts are paid. In Florida, the probate process can vary depending on the size and complexity of the estate, but understanding the steps involved can help you navigate it more smoothly. When Is Probate…
Setting up a trust is an essential step in estate planning, offering several benefits that help you protect your assets, provide for your loved ones, and avoid unnecessary legal hurdles. Whether you have a modest estate or significant wealth, a trust is a powerful tool that can ensure your wishes are carried out effectively. At…
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 for the future—particularly when it comes to estate planning. Estate planning ensures that your loved ones are cared for and your wishes are followed, especially…
What Happened? When music icon Prince passed away unexpectedly in 2016, he left behind a legacy of hits, cultural impact, and an estate worth an estimated $156 million. However, he did not leave behind a will. The absence of clear instructions for the distribution of his estate led to a prolonged legal struggle involving family…
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 assets and plan for the future. In this article, we’ll explore possible changes to estate planning law in Florida that could arise in 2025 and…
Creating a will is a crucial step in estate planning, but it doesn’t end once the document is drafted and signed. Regularly updating your will is equally important, especially for residents of Sarasota, Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch, where life changes can occur frequently. Here’s why keeping your will up-to-date is essential and how it can…
Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing. In Sarasota and Manatee County, Florida, the process of creating a will is straightforward, but it’s essential to understand the legal requirements and steps involved. Here’s a comprehensive…