To many, the estate planning process seems straightforward, requiring nothing more than a will, if that. But bypassing the estate planning process or making an estate plan that’s too limited can put you, your loved ones, and your estate at risk. To avoid that from...
Estate Planning
Challenging a guardianship in Florida
Guardianships serve an important purpose. Florida courts can appoint a guardian for minors or adults who are physically or mentally disabled or incapable of taking care of themselves or making decisions. A guardian can be appointed to make financial and/or personal...
How can you challenge a Florida guardianship?
As we get older, it becomes harder for us to stay on top of all of our affairs. That’s just part of life. But your abilities may be even more diminished if your physical and mental health has steadily declined over the years. In these instances, you might find that...
Why to include a HIPAA release in your estate plan
When we think of our health and estate planning, we often concentrate on two big items: durable power of attorney and a living will, also referred to as a health care surrogate. While both of these documents are essential, we might also want to include a third type of...
5 ways to start planning for your long-term care needs
The chances that you’ll need some sort of long-term care in your life is significant. In fact, some studies show that individuals aged 65 and older have a 70% chance of needing long-term care. Some of that care is home-based, while some of it involves a stay in a...
What is a living will and how do you create one?
A comprehensive estate plan can contain many components. You’ll have to address how your assets will be distributed upon your passing, for sure, but you’ll also need to think about what will happen to you in the event that you become unable to make important health...
When naming a health care surrogate, know their responsibilities
For many Floridians, an essential part of estate planning is being prepared if they become incapacitated. Having a trustworthy and competent person who will oversee their affairs, make decisions for them and look out for their best interests can eliminate a...
Can I get away with a do-it-yourself estate plan?
You may see advertisements online for do-it-yourself estate plans. They tout their services as a simple and frugal way to execute an estate plan. It is very tempting to take the shortcut of a do-it-yourself estate plan, rather than working with an attorney to execute...
Five reasons why you shouldn’t create an estate plan on your own
A quick Google or YouTube search can net you hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of results on how to create an estate plan. It can be tempting to turn to these online resources as a way to cut corners and save some money. But trying to create your own estate plan can...
Do you need to start planning for Medicaid?
A lot of estate planning focuses on how your assets are going to be distributed once you’re gone. In fact, you can use estate planning to ensure that your future interests are protected throughout your life, including obtaining much-needed medical and long-term care....
