Estate planning does not have to be complicated, but it does have to be smart. For many Florida homeowners, a powerful yet often misunderstood tool is the Lady Bird Deed. Also known as a Florida Enhanced Life Estate Deed, this planning option can help you protect your home, avoid probate, and preserve flexibility during your […]
Setting up a trust is often viewed as a smart and responsible step in the estate planning process. For many Florida families, a trust offers privacy, control, and peace of mind. However, a trust remains one of the most misunderstood estate planning tools. At Mara Law, P.A. our estate planning attorneys regularly see well-intentioned individuals […]
When a loved one passes away, family members are often left wondering what happens next, especially when it comes to handling the person’s estate. Probate can feel overwhelming, particularly if you have never been through it before. Many families ask the same question: “How long does probate take in Florida?” The answer depends on […]
When someone creates a trust, the trust-maker intends for his or her assets to pass to their beneficiaries in a controlled, private, and effective manner. But after the trust-maker (often called the “settlor” or “grantor”) passes away or becomes incapacitated, managing and distributing the trust’s assets is no small matter. That process is called trust […]
You worked hard all your life and amassed a decent estate to leave to your heirs and beneficiaries. Yet, you have some real concerns about one of your heirs. You love them dearly and want to provide for them after you’re gone. But one heir is quite ill-suited to manage their inheritance. That became evident […]
If you pass on and leave a will dictating how you would like your estate to be distributed, someone has to deposit the will and probate. Probate is a court process that approves the will and makes sure that your wishes are carried out. However, it is sometimes best to avoid the whole probate process […]
You want to get your estate plan in order, but you’re finding a few things confusing. What exactly is the difference between a beneficiary, a contingent beneficiary and an heir? Does the exact word that’s used really matter? Absolutely. Before you put your plans in place, it’s wise to know more about these three terms. […]
When you die, the property you have left after your personal representative repays your creditors will become the legacy you leave for your loved ones. After a lifetime of hard work, you probably want to give the people you love as much as possible out of your estate. Planning ahead for issues that would reduce […]
Without an advanced directive, you are the only one who can make medical decisions for yourself. You have a right to make these choices, based on recommendations from your doctor. However, what if something happens and you can’t communicate with the doctor or cannot make these decisions yourself? What happens if you come down with […]
When you have a child with special needs, you’re naturally concerned about your child’s well-being after you’re gone. There are assets available that could be used to see to their comfort, but you’re concerned about interfering with their eligibility for government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). You know that special needs trusts […]
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