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A personal representative or executor manages an estate. They must communicate with the probate courts about the status of the estate. If there is an estate plan, the personal representative must follow the deceased party's instructions. If there is no estate plan,...
When a Florida probate judge asks you to post a bond, it can feel like a personal slight. You stepped up during a difficult time to manage a loved one’s final wishes, only to find out you need an insurance policy to prove you will not mishandle the estate. It is...
According to a 2024 survey by AARP, nearly half of adults over the age of 50 do not have a will. When you are ready to draft one, using a pen and paper might seem like a cost-effective option. In Florida, handwriting a will without witnesses renders it invalid....
For many people, pets become cherished family members who bring joy and companionship to their lives. You feed them, care for them and love them unconditionally. And yet few pet owners consider what might happen to their beloved fur babies if something unexpected...
When a person passes away, they might own property in more than one state. If this happens, their family often has to handle two separate court cases. If the person lived outside Florida but owned a condo, vacation home or land there, Florida law requires a special...
The probate process imposes many responsibilities on executors and personal representatives. They must secure and catalog estate resources. They must follow instructions included in the estate plan and conform to state statutes. They also have to fulfill the financial...
When someone dies, their family must handle their money and property through a legal process called probate. In Florida, this process can take months or even longer without a solid plan. Taking simple steps now can make things much easier for your loved ones later....
Despite the significance of estate planning, many parents struggle with how much to involve their children in the process. At the core of this hesitation lies the emotional weight of estate planning. For parents, it is not just about drafting documents; it is about...
Here in Florida, the homestead exemption is an important distinction that protects a decedent’s primary residence from claims against their estate. While this is a good thing, it does add a layer of complexity to the probate process. Let’s dive in and learn more about...
During the probate process, a personal representative carries out a testator's last wishes. If there isn’t a will, then they follow intestate succession laws. They secure and distribute the assets of the decedent. They fulfill financial obligations by paying debts....