Serving South Florida Since 1974
We are often been asked by clients why a will must be signed twice. The practice seems redundant to many clients. In short, the practice is determined by long-standing law and procedure designed to confirm the validity of a will after the testator’s death. A will is...
Deeds are an essential part of every real estate transaction. A deed is a written instrument that evidences the transfer of title to real property from one party to another. There are various types of deeds wherein different warranties of the condition of title are...
Nothing is certain in life except death and taxes. However, strategic estate planning can dramatically decrease any taxes due at the time of your death. Historically, wealthy individuals and families have used dynasty trusts to protect and preserve their fortune...
The Florida Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (“FUTMA”) provides a relatively straightforward way to give a minor an ownership interest in assets while maintaining control until the minor reaches the age of majority. Most people who establish FUTMA accounts for children...
Historically, corporations and limited partnerships were the preferred business models to operate a closely held business. Today, however, limited liability companies (LLCs) are being established in multiples compared to corporations and partnerships. LLCs can be...
A Last Will and Testament (often referred to as a “will”) should be included in every estate plan. A will details the disposition of your estate upon your death. Most people understand the basic need for a will, especially since the most recent (and unfortunate) death...
Have you ever gone on a treasure hunt? Long gone are the days when you need to go on an adventure to discover lost property. Now, you can simply search a website run by the Florida Division of Unclaimed Property for lost property held by the State of Florida in your...
For those of you who remember, or those who do not remember, back in the ‘50’s and ‘60’s, the late comedian Jackie Gleason hosted a TV show with his favorite character, Reggie Van Gleason III, a bon vivant character with a severe drinking problem. He was the scion of...
Property values in Florida are on the rise. From June of 2015 through June of 2016, the price of homes increased by 7% in the State of Florida. A 6.8% increase is projected again by June of 2017. Because property values are on the rise, portability of the homestead...
We recently had an issue with a bank refusing to accept a durable power of attorney prepared for a client by our firm. In 2015, the client properly executed the durable power of attorney designating her two daughters to serve as co-agents with the express authority to...