Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Three Reasons Many Trusts Fail
If you have a Florida estate plan, it may include a trust. A trust is a legal document into which assets are placed to be distributed to beneficiaries in the event the grantor (person who created the trust) passes away. Trusts are important estate planning tools that allow loved ones to avoid the probate… Read More »
How To Avoid Three Common Mistakes That Lead To Probate
Probate is a legal process during which the assets of a decedent are gathered and identified, the decedent’s debts are paid, and assets of the deceased are distributed to the beneficiaries. Although it is sometimes necessary, probate is a long and expensive process and it can result in family members waiting long periods of… Read More »
A Review Of The Intestate Succession Laws In Florida
Perhaps the most important reason to draft a will is so that you can avoid the intestate succession laws of the state. When a person dies without a will, the State of Florida basically provides the deceased with a Will. It is referred to as our intestacy laws. Basically, the estate will be divided… Read More »
The Importance Of Including Stepchildren In Your Estate Plan
Estate plans are always an important tool but if you have stepchildren, you must take extra care with yours to ensure your stepchild receives any inheritance you wish to leave them. If you have not legally adopted your stepchild, they do not have any automatic rights to any inheritance you may wish to leave… Read More »
Your Estate Planning Checklist
If you are an adult, you likely know that you need an estate plan. With so many tools available, and each of them serving a different purpose, it can be a real challenge to know where to begin. Below, our St. Petersburg estate planning lawyer has created a checklist you can follow to ensure… Read More »
Does Florida Have An Estate Tax?
Of all the different types of taxes people think about, estate taxes are often overlooked. Truthfully, though many people will not have to pay estate taxes because of the current high lifetime exemption, estate taxes can be quite significant and place a real financial burden on your family. The federal government, as well as… Read More »
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 »