Category Archives: Probate and Estate Disputes
In Which Circumstances Can an Estate Entirely Avoid Probate?
There are some circumstances in which Florida estates do not have to go through the probate process. This usually happens when the deceased person leaves very little behind in terms of assets or property. Florida offers what is called Disposition Without Administration, a process that lets a person who paid for the final expenses of […]
What Happens with Debts when You Pass Away?
There are a few types of debt that will be forgiven upon your death. However, in most cases, debts and other financial obligations you have will be paid out of your estate. The following is a quick look at some of the most common types of debts and how they get handled when the debtor […]
What Happens to Your Facebook Profile After You Pass Away?
Millions of people across the country regularly use social networks to keep in touch with friends and family members. Facebook has become especially popular with people of all ages — including senior citizens — as a means of sharing photos, memories, events and more. Over the years, your Facebook account has likely collected a significant […]
Important Information on Selecting a Successor Trustee
Whenever you develop a living trust, you must decide who will be your successor trustee. This is the person who will take control of your trust assets upon your passing or if you become medically incapacitated. Below are some of the considerations to keep in mind when making this decision: The role of the successor […]
Answering Frequently Asked Questions About IRA Beneficiaries
Based on whom you name as beneficiary of your individual retirement account (IRA), there are ways you can extend the benefits far beyond your standard tax-deferred withdrawals. In fact, you can keep the money growing throughout the lives of your children or grandchildren. After a certain point, you must begin withdrawing money from your IRA […]
What You Cannot Change by Avoiding Probate
Avoiding probate is one of the more common goals people have when they’re engaged in estate planning. Although there are numerous trusts and other estate planning tools that can help you circumvent probate, it is important to remember that bypassing probate does not allow you to avoid other important obligations. Below are a few examples […]
Strategies to Help You Gain More Control Over Distribution of Estate Assets
Sometimes, simply listing the assets you want to go to your children does not provide you with enough control in your last will and testament. For example, you might be worried about your child’s spending habits, fearing that he or she will burn through the inheritance too quickly. If this is a concern for you, […]
Tips to Help You Avoid Family Fights Over Your Estate
Unfortunately, it’s somewhat common for families to experience conflict over a loved one’s estate — especially the contents of a last will and testament. Even if you assume your family members will get along with each other after you pass away, you can still take extra steps to ensure there will be no conflict after […]
Estate Planning Tips for People with Dementia
If you have been diagnosed with dementia and are still in the early stages of the disease, it is imperative to ensure you have a fully updated estate plan in place. People who have dementia eventually experience trouble with memory loss, cognitive function and language — and the decline can be rapid in some circumstances. […]
Talk with Your Family About Your Estate Plan to Avoid Potential Conflicts
When a loved one passes away, it’s somewhat common for conflicts to arise among beneficiaries regarding the deceased’s estate plan. In many of these cases, the conflict could have been avoided if the deceased had talked through the estate plan with his or her family in advance. The most common issue is that children or […]