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Burial Disputes in Florida
Unfortunately, sometimes families disagree over the last will and wishes of loved ones. Yet what happens when a family fights over how and where the decedent’s funeral and burial should take place? While it may sound unusual for brothers, sisters and other family members to argue over the details of a loved one’s final resting […]
Everything Today is DIY — What About Wills?
From car batteries to cabinets, nowadays everything is do-it-yourself (DIY). Yet while it may be possible to rely on a few YouTube videos to help you take care of some minor plumbing issues, estate planning is not something you should attempt without professional guidance. The rightful heir of Ann Aldrich learned this the hard way. […]
What Should I Bring to My First Estate Planning Meeting?
Meeting with an attorney to set up an estate plan is one of the best decisions you can make. During your first meeting, you can expect a confidential discussion about your wealth and estate. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and review materials regarding your family and finances. In fact, you’ll get the […]
Considerations When Looking for a Retirement Destination
The average age of retirement has risen from 63 to 67 years old. In addition, according to the AARP, 40 percent of baby boomers now say they plan on working until they die. If you are part of the other 60 percent, you may be tired of living in the same place. In fact, if […]
When is Probate Necessary?
If you have done research on estate planning or spoken to an attorney about planning for the future, you may have heard that it is sometimes best to avoid probate. Probate is the process of proving and validating a decedent’s last will. In the event that there is no will, it determines that inheritance is […]
Three Estate Planning Mistakes You Should Avoid
Planning your estate takes courage and commitment. Many people who labor over setting up an estate plan fear the cost, the hassle and the prospect of death itself. Yet estate planning doesn’t have to be that anxiety-inducing task you’ve been meaning to get around to but keep putting off. At the same time, you shouldn’t […]
Pet Trusts: Taking Care of Your Pet After You Die
If you have a will, when was the last time you updated it? While your last will may contain provisions about your children, spouse, siblings and other relatives, have you thought about what will happen to your beloved pet if something should happen to you? Many individuals who enter the estate planning process have thought […]
Estate Planning Lessons Learned from Casey Kasem
If you’ve been following the latest celebrity news, you may be curious about what’s going on with Casey Kasem. Kasem was a well-known music and radio personality and actor who, among other things, hosted America’s Top 40 music countdown. At 82 years old, the icon was suffering from Lewy body dementia — a condition that […]
The Last Will of L’Wren Scott
In March of 2014, New York fashion designer L’Wren Scott was found dead. After a successful modeling career, Ms. Scott turned to the world of style and design. Then in 2001, she began a long-term relationship with Rolling Stones front man Mick Jagger. Her suicide came shortly after tabloid reports surfaced about her relationship with […]
How Litigation Unfolded for Brooke Astor’s Multi-Million Dollar Estate
Multi-millionaire Brooke Astor lived to the age of 105 and left the majority of her estate to her only son, Anthony Marshall. Upon his death, whatever remained would go to charities. Forbes magazine reported that her estate’s value was close to $200 million. A series of complicated legal battles ensued after her death, including the […]