Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Can A Will Alone Help Your Loved Ones Avoid Probate?
Many people know the importance of creating a last will and testament. A will can outline your last wishes and indicate who you would like to receive your property when you pass away, and even include who you would like to assign as guardian of your children. Drafting a will is very important, and… Read More »
Seven Common Estate Planning Mistakes
Creating a will, trust, and other documents in the event that you become incapacitated are all very important steps when you embark on planning for your estate. Unfortunately, there are also many mistakes you can make along the way and these can impact you during your life, or your loved ones after you pass… Read More »
Busting Common Myths About Estate Planning In Florida
Many people know how important estate planning is for the future of themselves and their families. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding the process, the tools available, and who needs it. Below, our St. Petersburg estate planning lawyer outlines the biggest myths surrounding the process, and the truth behind them. Estate Planning is Not… Read More »
What Do Prenups Have To Do With Your Estate Plan? A Lot!
When considering estate planning or prenuptial agreements, you may not think one has much to do with the other. However, that is not true. A prenuptial agreement is a contract that outlines how your assets will be divided between you and your spouse in the event of divorce or death. An estate plan dictates… Read More »
Why Do-It-Yourself Estate Planning Can Hurt Your Loved Ones
Taking on do-it-yourself (“DIY”) projects, such as hanging up your own wallpaper or changing the oil in your car, is a hobby for many and a great way to save money. However, this same approach should not be taken with your estate planning needs. While estate planning tasks, such as drafting a Last Will… Read More »
What Are Your Long-Term Care Planning Options?
Over the last few decades, the average American’s lifespan has increased dramatically. While this is clearly a good thing, it has also brought a whole new host of issues, including a wider variety of long-term care options for the elderly. The majority of senior citizens will need long-term care at some point. In fact,… Read More »
Where Should You Store Your Estate Planning Documents?
You have put a lot of thought and care into creating estate planning documents that will protect your family and ensure your final wishes are fulfilled. However, if no one can find these documents upon your passing, they may not provide the protection you had thought they would. The court may even presume you… Read More »
How To Protect Your Digital Assets
As you start creating your estate plan, a few assets may immediately come to mind that you want to protect. Your home and your vehicle may be just two of these. However, did you know it is important to protect your digital assets, too? Digital assets can include property such as Bitcoin, security tokens,… Read More »
Four Ways To Avoid Probate
In some situations, probate is a necessary process after someone passes away. During probate, the nominated Personal Representative, also known as executor, of a deceased person’s Will distributes assets among beneficiaries, defends against challenges to a Will, and is responsible for paying the decedent’s debts. Probate can become costly and it can take months,… Read More »
Four Ways Proper Estate Planning Can Protect Your Children
As a parent, protecting your child is the most important thing to you and an estate plan is one way to protect your children. Regardless of the age of your children, a proper estate plan can eliminate questions and avoid disputes in the event of a crisis. Below, one of our St. Petersburg estate… Read More »