Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Things To Consider When Choosing Beneficiaries
A primary reason to create an estate plan is to designate beneficiaries who will receive certain property once you pass away. Choosing your beneficiaries, therefore, is not something you should take lightly. While you may know who you want to name as a beneficiary, there are certain factors you should consider. Below, our St…. Read More »

The Importance Of Estate Planning When You Are Young
When many people think of estate planning, they often think it is a task reserved for older people. However, this is a misconception. The truth is that everyone can benefit from having an estate plan, whether they are old, young, single, married, wealthy, or low income. If you are a young person, our St…. Read More »

How To Gift An Early Inheritance
Estate planning is important for adults of all ages. By creating an estate plan, you will have the reassurance that your loved ones will be taken care of when you are gone. You will also have the confidence of knowing that your last wishes will be fulfilled. Sometimes, the person providing an inheritance to… Read More »

The Importance Of Updating Your Estate Plan After Your Spouse Passes Away
Losing your spouse is perhaps the most difficult thing you will ever go through. You are grieving and at the same time, you also have a lot to think about. Reviewing and updating your estate plan may be the last thing on your mind. However, it is important that you review and updated your… Read More »

The Four Types Of Wills In Florida
When thinking about creating an estate plan, writing a will is often one of the first things that comes to mind. This should come as no surprise, as wills are one of the most important aspects of any estate plan. However, there are many different types of wills in Florida and the one that… Read More »

Planning For Your Pet? Avoid These Two Mistakes
As Americans, we love our pets. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 60 million people throughout the country own pets. Pet owners are also willing to spend a significant amount of money on their furry and feathered friends. Between the years of 2007 and 2017, people spent $5.8 billion on their pets. They are… Read More »

Three Common Signs Of Estate Mismanagement
Florida law requires all estates to be handled by a personal representative, known as the administrator or the executor of an estate. The personal representative has many duties and they hold a fiduciary position. This means they have a legal obligation to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries of the estate. Many… Read More »

Two Ways To Disprove Undue Influence
Wills and trusts are important form the basis of numerous estate plans. While they are important legal documents, they can also be challenged in probate court. If certain people can successfully challenge a will or trust, they may be able to receive part of the estate even if they are not named as beneficiaries…. Read More »

Are Holographic Wills Valid In Florida?
Most of the time, people will seek out the help of an attorney when they are drafting their last will and testament. However, there are times when a person simply writes out their last wishes and calls the document their will. Handwritten wills are known as holographic wills, and they are not legal in… Read More »

Understanding The Differences Between Wills And Trusts
Many people who are considering creating an estate plan have heard the terms “will” and “trust” before. Still, not everyone understands the differences between these two important components of an estate plan. While there are similarities between these two important legal documents, there are also important differences. Below, our St. Petersburg wills lawyer explains… Read More »