Articles Posted in Asset Protection

How Do I Choose a Trustee? By Phil Rarick, Miami Trust Attorney, and Jasmine Benitez, Legal Assistant Choosing a trustee is one of the most important decisions you will make when creating a trust.   A trust is simply legally binding instructions, and you must be confident that your trustee will follow these instructions exactly and…

How to Avoid Probate and Protect Your Boat in Florida: Best Legal Strategies By Jacqueline R. Bowden Gold, Broward Estate Planning Attorney Owning a boat in Florida is a dream for many, but when it comes to estate planning, failing to properly title or protect your boat can lead to probate delays and legal issues. If…

Does a Florida Land Trust Provide Asset Protection? By Phil Rarick, Weston Trust Attorney, and Jasmine Benitez, Legal Assistant Many real estate investors wrongly believe that a Florida Land Trust can offer asset protection. While this type of trust is known for providing privacy and simplifying estate planning, they do not provide comprehensive protection from…

What is a Family Trust? By Phil Rarick, Weston Trust Attorney – Every family needs instructions in the event of disability or death. A Family Trust, also known as a Living Trust, is your detailed, legally binding instructions to care for you and your family in the event of mental incapacity or death. A trust…

What is the Best Probate Option for Me in Florida? By Jacqueline R. Bowden Gold, Broward Probate Attorney – Navigating the probate process can be daunting, especially during an emotionally challenging time. Florida law provides several probate options tailored to the complexity of the estate, the size of the assets, and the circumstances of the…

Understanding Spousal Rights Under Florida Probate Law: What You Need to Know By Jacqueline R. Bowden Gold, Weston Probate Attorney Florida probate law provides specific protections for legally recognized spouses upon the death of their partner. However, it’s important to note that Florida does not recognize common law marriage, meaning individuals who have lived together…

Why Florida Residents Should Use Wyoming LLC with Caution By: Jacqueline R. Bowden Gold, Miami Business Law Attorney – When forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC), many business owners are drawn to states like Wyoming due to its strong asset protection laws, privacy advantages, and business-friendly tax structure. However, for Florida residents who operate businesses…

The Importance of Your Adult Child Naming a Healthcare Surrogate and Power of Attorney By: Jacqueline R. Bowden Gold, Miami Estate Planning Attorney – When a child turns 18, they reach the legal age of majority. While they may still be living at home and supported by you, your child is considered an adult creating…

Is a Handwritten Will Valid Under Florida Law? By: Jacqueline R. Bowden Gold, Miami Lakes Estate Planning Attorney When planning for the future, a crucial step is ensuring that your wishes are respected after your death. This often involves creating a will. However, not all wills are created equal, and understanding the types of wills…

2024 Property Tax Appeal Deadline: Read the Small Print! By: Phil Rarick, Miami Trust Attorney You will miss this deadline if you do not read carefully – and you may need a magnifying glass to find it. Around the last weeks of August, you should have received in the mail a “Notice of Proposed Property…