Fiduciary duty describes the expectations of the individual who is acting in the benefit of another. The acting individual, or fiduciary, has the authority to act on behalf of another person or entity. They have the legal and ethical obligation to act in that party’s...
An executor has a duty to maintain property and other assets to prevent them from suffering damage or destruction before they pass to beneficiaries. If you serve as executor for a deceased family member, you may find this is especially true for the home your loved one...
Estate planning might sound like something that you don’t have to worry about until later in life. However, making a plan later in life, when you’re 55 or older, could be disadvantageous to you. Assets transferred on your death may be subject to estate taxes, and...
Every parent aims to ensure the best possible care and future for their children before passing on. However, this seemingly mundane goal presents a significant challenge for parents of children who may require lifelong support. For parents of children with special...
Entering guardianship can be helpful for individuals who cannot care for themselves properly because of disabilities or incapacity, but it may only be a final resort. Courts often encourage individuals to retain their autonomy despite their condition if they can still...
Establishing a trust involves multiple parties with distinct and significant roles, such as the trustee. This designation typically has responsibilities related to overseeing the trust, entailing fiduciary duties that require honesty and transparency. Additionally,...
Estate administrators hold the responsibility of managing and distributing a decedent's assets. They have to balance their legal obligations and the decedent's wishes, which is a crucial part of their role. Disputes can sometimes arise in the process of fulfilling...
In the state of Florida, the legal system allows for various types of inheritance conditions. These conditions serve as a strategic means for testators to shape the disbursement of their estate, ensuring the precise execution of their wishes. If you wish to place...
Discussing a will can be emotionally challenging. Mortality, end-of-life plans and distributing wealth are always sensitive topics for everyone. However, it could get more complex and demanding when an individual leaves the world without a will. A will is an...
Navigating estate settlements as a beneficiary requires familiarity with legal rights and the necessary negotiation skills. These are crucial for protecting your interests and reaching a fair resolution. Here are some key points that you should be aware of as a...