A quick look at statistics shows that many people are waiting to make their estate plans. After all, the majority of Americans do not have an estate plan yet, and one of the top reasons is that they claim they just have not gotten around to making one. It is not that...
Protecting
Your Legacy
Florida Legal Blog
Estate Planning
Where to look for a will when preparing for probate court
Probate proceedings are usually necessary when an adult dies. Surviving family members often initiate the probate process by filing paperwork with the courts. Typically, they must locate estate planning paperwork, including the will of the deceased individual. In some...
Why an outdated estate plan could leave your family at risk
If you haven’t looked at your estate plan in a while, you’re not alone. Many people create an estate plan and tuck it away, assuming the job is done. On paper, it might look like you’ve taken care of everything, but the reality may be very different. An outdated...
Common estate plan concerns of divorcing spouses
If you have an estate plan in place (even a simple will), your spouse is likely mentioned multiple times. That means if you’re divorcing, you’ll need to review your estate plan as soon as possible to determine what changes you want or need to make and the appropriate...
How long do creditors have to make probate repayment claims?
Probate proceedings help protect the rights of parties with an interest in an estate. Heirs and beneficiaries expecting to inherit from an estate have an interest in the probate process. So do creditors owed money by the decedent. The personal representative managing...
What happens to debts when someone dies?
When a person dies, their debts don’t automatically die with them, but they don’t transfer over to the person’s loved ones unless specific conditions are met. In most cases, the debts become the responsibility of the person’s estate. If the decedent’s estate doesn’t...
Estate planning concerns about late-life marriage
Marriages happening late in life are becoming more common, whether after divorce, the loss of a spouse or simply finding love later in life. While these unions can bring happiness and companionship, they also come with unique legal challenges that couples and families...
What are landlords’ obligations during repairs?
When you rent a home or apartment in Florida, your landlord must keep the property safe and livable. That means more than just collecting rent; it includes making sure everything works as it should. If something breaks, they have a legal responsibility to handle...
How do zoning laws impact city growth and mixed-use spaces?
Zoning laws decide how land can be used in different areas. Mixed-use zoning allows homes, businesses, and sometimes small factories to exist in the same space. These rules help make communities more walkable, reduce overcrowding, and boost local economies. Helping...
What assets require ancillary probate in Florida?
If a person from another state owns property in Florida, their estate may need to go through ancillary probate. This process ensures that out-of-state assets transfer according to the deceased's wishes or Florida law. Only certain types of assets require ancillary...

