Recently, I have written several blogs concerning the possible federal estate tax increase from zero to 55% in 2011. If Congress’s left and right representatives cannot come to an agreement, the exemption will end at $1 million. This means that for every individual who passes away, up to $1 million…
As we age, it is very common to lose some of the wits you had when you were younger. Due to the growing number of senior citizens that are falling victim to financial abuse, careful estate planning is a necessity while you are still fully competent. Financial abuse of the…
Faith and religion often underlie many decisions an individual makes in regards to their Florida Estate Plan. This realization prompted David A. Straus to write a book entitled Faith-Based Estate Planning: Our Values and Valuables. Straus’ book attempts lead the reader through the estate planning process, at all times keeping…
Florida Will Contests: Occasionally a family member or friend passes away with a Florida Will that gives less than expected to an heir of the decedent. This situation usually gives rise to an inquiry about a will contest. A will contest happens when the disgruntled heir challenges the will by…
In today’s society, intellectual property rights are rapidly increasing for those individuals that are business savvy and artistically or scientifically talented. Intellectual property rights (aka intangible assets) include patents, copyrights, trademarks, and publicity rights. In most instances, intangible assets are obtained as a direct result of someone’s job, profession, or…
After having a child, one of the first decisions parents should make is deciding who the guardian of the child will be in the event both parents pass away. While many parents may talk about who they wish to take care of their child in the event of their deaths,…
Today George Steinbrenner, New York Yankees owner, died of a heart attack in Tampa Florida. The Yankees are valued at more than 1.6 billion dollars and have been run by his sons Hal and Hank for almost 2 years. Steinbrenner’s estate at the time of his death is estimated to…
Moving to a new state can often times be a stressful and exhausting process that takes careful planning. It is important to remember to visit a Florida Estate Planning Lawyer during the planning process to review your Florida Will. A common misconception of many people moving to Florida is that…
With the new estate tax laws that will soon be put in place, more Americans hard by the estate tax. However, there is more to estate planning than simple tax avoidance. Estate planning and Florida Estate Planning is about the legacy you want to leave behind after you are gone.…
The stage has been set for a estate contest concerning the estate of Gail Posner. Gail is the daughter and heiress of the late millionaire business executive Victor Posner. In her recent will admitted to probate, Gail left $3 million in a Florida Pet Trust fund for the care of…