FIXING A BROKEN ESTATE PLAN MIGHT BE EASIER THAN YOU THINK

Attorneys and clients both recognize that estate planning can be a constantly changing process. The plans can be affected by family circumstances and legal changes. Increased wealth, marriages and uncertain tax laws have led clients to periodically reevaluate their estate plans, a move encouraged by legal experts. By paying constant attention to their estate documents, clients can prevent last-minute document errors Read More

WOMAN GETS REHABILITATION FOR TAKING MOM TO FLORIDA

A Florida woman has been granted accelerated rehabilitation instead of jail time for spiriting her 81-year-old mother away from her home. The woman's family has been legally disputing the elderly woman's care agreement for some time in a continued probate litigation case, according to official documents. Police found the older woman at her daughter's friend's home after a three-week search. The woman was charged Read More

ESTATE PLANNING: SKIPPING ESTATE TAXES

It can be discouraging for Florida residents who are planning an estate to realize that assets can be so heavily taxed on both the federal and state level. Estate administration includes finding the best way to preserve assets from one generation to the next, and trusts can be a great tool for doing so. Regulations on trusts vary from state to state, so consulting a local professional who knows the ins and outs of Read More

POP CELEBRITIES’ ESTATES CASH IN ON POSTHUMOUS FAME

Every person hopes that their legacy will live on, whether through creative works or lives touched. When a celebrity dies, they may take comfort that the things they have done in life, good or bad, will continue to intrigue the public long after their death. The American public's obsession with a celebrity is greatly reflected in estate value once the celebrity dies. The death of Whitney Houston is still fresh in Read More

TRIO OF DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR END-OF-LIFE DECISIONS

When a health care crisis occurs, such as a severe illness or serious accident, a family can be thrown into a scenario that they are not prepared for. If a loved one is unable to make important decisions, someone needs to accept responsibility. Even with the best of intentions, making those decisions can create conflict within a family when support is what is needed. To avoid such stressful and difficult Read More

WILLS ARE IMPORTANT TO AVOID PROBATE

When planning an estate, there are things that a person can do to make sure the dissemination of their possessions goes as smoothly as possible. In addition to the usual documents, estate planners can make sure that assets with titles, such as cars, have the person listed as a joint owner. In the event of death, the title will automatically transfer to the other title holder and no probate is necessary. The Read More