Estate Planning

Estate Planning Checklist for Year-End Financial Planning

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

By Jada W.Terreros, Esq.

As we approach the end of the year, now is the ideal time to revisit and update your Estate Planning documents. An annual review ensures that your plans align with your current wishes and financial situation. Here’s a checklist to help you stay on track:

Expert Insights: The Risks of Naming Minor Children as Death Beneficiaries in Estate Planning

Wednesday, September 4th, 2024

By Callie W. Cowan, Esq.

When considering how to structure your estate plan, one of the most important decisions you will make is determining who will inherit your assets. If you're a grandparent wanting to leave a portion of your estate to a minor grandchild, it's crucial to understand the potential pitfalls associated with naming them as a direct beneficiary. As an estate planning attorney, I've seen firsthand the complications that can arise from this well-intentioned decision.

Understanding Beneficiary Designations

Wednesday, May 29th, 2024

By Jada W. Terreros, Esq.

As an Estate Planning Attorney, I frequently encounter clients who are unaware of the intricacies involved in beneficiary designations and their interaction with Wills. A common scenario involves clients who believe they have adequately named multiple beneficiaries in their Wills, only to discover later that due to a misunderstanding, they effectively named just one beneficiary. This misunderstanding can lead to significant consequences. Let's delve into the critical aspects of beneficiary designations and how they interact with Estate Planning.

Preparing for Your Parents’ Future (and Yours!)

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

By Callie W. Cowan, Esq.

As our parents age, we are confronted with the reality that their well-being may someday soon be in our hands. But what documents should we be making sure they have in place? This article will cover three indispensable documents that play a crucial role in proactive estate planning for your parents and future generations.

Securing Your Legacy: The Indispensable Role of an Estate Planning Attorney

Tuesday, February 20th, 2024

By Steve W. Ledbetter, Esq.

Embarking on the journey of estate planning is a pivotal step in ensuring the seamless transfer of your assets and safeguarding the future for your loved ones. While online programs may offer a quick and seemingly convenient solution, there are compelling reasons to choose the personalized guidance of an experienced estate planning attorney. In this blog post, we'll explore why opting for professional legal assistance is essential for creating a robust and tailored estate plan.

Why Charitable Giving Should Be Part of Your Estate Plan

Wednesday, November 1st, 2023

By Callie W. Cowan, Esq.

Estate planning isn't just about distributing assets; it's also an opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the causes and organizations that matter most to you. Charitable giving is a noble way to make a difference, even after you're gone. Here are a few compelling reasons why you should consider including charitable donations in your estate plan:

After Graduating High School - The Importance of Advanced Directives

Wednesday, July 12th, 2023

By Callie W. Cowan, Esq.

High school graduation marks an important milestone in life. As you embark on this new chapter filled with opportunities and independence, it's essential to consider important aspects of responsible adulthood, such as healthcare planning. One crucial component of healthcare planning is creating advanced directives.

Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples

Friday, February 10th, 2023

By Steve W. Ledbetter, ESQ.

There are many reasons why a committed couple in a loving relationship might choose not to get married. We strongly recommend that unmarried couples consider the implications of Estate Planning to ensure that their wishes are fulfilled with regards to their testamentary documents. It is also important to consider fiduciary appointments for managing assets and health care in the event of incapacity.

New to Florida? It’s Time to Update Your Estate Plan

Wednesday, January 4th, 2023

By Callie Cowan, Esq.

You’ve made it. You’re finally a Florida resident, enjoying the warmth & sunshine. It has undoubtedly taken a great deal of planning to get to this point, but there is one more piece of planning you may not have considered – your Estate Plan.

Rights of Spouse – Not Always What You’d Expect

Tuesday, November 15th, 2022

By Steve W. Ledbetter, ESQ.

In the context of Estate Planning, marriage can add many elements of complexity. In fact, in our law practice it is quite common to get to educate new clients on how their recent nuptials may add multiple levels of complexity to their estate plan.

Don't DIY Your Estate Plan

Wednesday, November 2nd, 2022

By Callie Cowan, ESQ.

Whether it's Fixer Upper or This Old House, we've all seen projects go awry when homeowners try to "DIY" certain things that should have been left to the professionals.

Unfortunately, we often see people try to take a "do it yourself" approach when it comes to their estate plan and the results can be just as disastrous.