Your Family Matters, P.A.

04/27/2023

04/18/2023

This guy is spot on! Want to avoid the cost, time & hassle of probate? We can help you set you a revocable living trust to protect your family and your assets

www.YourFamily.legal

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1675930266194761?fs=e&s=TIeQ9V&mibextid=0NULKw

03/01/2023

There are currently billions of dollars sitting in state departments of unclaimed property throughout the U.S. and we never want to see a penny of your assets there!

That's why we take important steps to help our clients keep their estate plan up to date periodically. Our recommendation is to review your estate plan every 3 years.

Has it been more than 3 years since someone reviewed your estate? If so, now's a good time to chat and get all of your documents caught up!

02/25/2023

Our team represents families throughout varying stages of life, including...

​🤍 Traditional two-parent families or single parents wishing to provide for and protect their children and themselves

​🤍 ​Unmarried couples who are either solidifying their relationship through proper planning or dissolving their relationship with the assistance of caring counsel

​​🤍 Blended families negotiating the challenges of creating new relationships with varying expectations

​🤍 ​Families with special needs looking to ensure that their children with special needs will be taken care of and able to continue to receive government assistance

​🤍 ​High net worth families seeking strategies for minimizing estate and income taxes

​🤍 ​Estate executors and beneficiaries navigating the court process of probate administration

​🤍 ​Family members or trustees carrying out the legacy left behind through a trust administration.

02/24/2023

Collaborative Divorce and Estate Planning at Your Family Matters are Not “One Size Fits All” or “Cookie Cutter.”

We offer customized, personalized approach to helping a family through the process of amicable separation with mediation and collaborative divorce process.

02/23/2023

We specialize in many aspects of family law to provide each client a solution suited for their individual situation.

No family is there same, therefore no family plan will be the same either!

Reach out today to set up a plan for your family's future.

02/21/2023

Planning for long-term care is crucial in estate planning. To prepare:

✔️ Research options for in-home care, assisted living and nursing homes.
✔️ Consider purchasing long-term care insurance.
✔️ Plan for Medicaid eligibility through proper asset structuring.
✔️ Consult with an attorney on estate planning strategies such as trusts and gifting.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that you have the resources for long-term care and protect your assets for your loved ones.

02/17/2023

Are Estate Planning attorney fees tax deductible?

Now that it's tax season, we've been getting this question from clients. Short answer is NO, in most instances they are not deductible. However, there are a few exceptions.

There are some instances where estate planning fees may be tax deductible. Usually, this is the case when you've hired an attorney to handle assets that are income-producing.

Of course, we recommend you consult with a tax professional to see if your specific situation could be tax deductible!

02/16/2023

As pet parents, it's important to think about their future and ensure they are taken care of. By including them in our estate plan, we can make sure they are provided for and loved even after we're gone. Don't forget to give your furry family the same consideration you would give any other loved one. 🐾❤️

02/13/2023

Creating your will and keeping your estate plan up to date is a great way to show your loved ones that you care about their will being.

Don't have a will? This is a great season to start yours! We can help.

02/10/2023

Tying the knot? Updating your plan ensures your joint assets are protected, accommodates any changing family structure, and reflects both your estate planning goals.

Don't wait! Schedule a meeting with your estate planning attorney today 💕

02/06/2023

Make your love story a timeless tale by planning ahead with estate planning this Valentine's season.

You CAN protect a happy future together 💕

01/27/2023

It's difficult to put into a short post the importance of having a guardianship in place for minor children.

Guardianship for minors is a vital legal arrangement that ensures the safety, well-being, and rights of children. It appoints a responsible adult to make decisions on behalf of a child who is unable to care for themselves. This may be necessary in cases of abuse, neglect, or death.

Guardians provide basic needs, make decisions about education, and ensure the child's rights are protected. They also provide a stable and nurturing environment for the child to grow and develop, giving them a sense of security.

01/26/2023

Probate court can be pricy and lengthy. If you aren't sure how probate court works, check out our post from yesterday.

Want to avoid probate court in Florida? Here are a few legal tools you can use:

✅ Joint ownership with rights of survivorship (JTWROS) allows two people to share ownership of property and automatically transfer it to the surviving owner without probate.

✅ Beneficiary accounts (like POD or TOD accounts) let you name who will inherit the account upon your death, bypassing probate.

✅ Lady Bird Deeds transfer real property to future beneficiaries while reserving the grantor's right to live in and control the property for their lifetime.

✅ Living trusts are often used as they allow you to set up a trust during your lifetime and provide that you may amend or revoke the trust during your lifetime.

Be sure to consult with a legal professional to see what option works best for you.

01/25/2023

Probate court is a legal process that handles the distribution of assets and property of a deceased person, and settles any outstanding debts or taxes.

It may involve a judge and a personal representative, and it's goal is to ensure that a deceased person's assets are distributed according to their will or state laws. It's important to note that probate court may not be necessary in some cases, and for those it does, the process can take several months or even a few years.

A good estate plan can help avoid going to probate court. But if needed, it is highly recommended to seek help from am estate attorney. Our office has handles hundreds of probate cases, and helped many more avoid probate all together.

01/25/2023

Are you looking to make a positive impact on the world through charitable giving and wondering how to incorporate it into your estate plan? Here are some helpful tips to get you started:

1. Determine your charitable goals: What causes or organizations do you want to support? Do you want to make a one-time donation or establish a lasting legacy? Having a clear understanding of your goals will guide you in choosing the right giving options.

Don't forget to research different giving options. From direct gifts to charitable trusts and gift annuities, there are many ways to give. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so make sure to research and understand the options before making a decision.

2. Consider the tax implications: Charitable giving can provide significant tax benefits, but it's important to understand how the laws apply to your specific situation. For example, donations to qualified charitable organizations are typically tax-deductible but with limits.

3. Review and update your plan regularly: Like any estate plan, it's important to review and update your charitable giving plan regularly to ensure it aligns with your goals and takes into account any changes in laws or your personal circumstances.

4. Work with a professional: Estate planning can be complex, and charitable giving is no exception. An attorney or financial advisor can help you navigate the legal and financial aspects of your giving options and create a plan that meets your charitable goals.

Remember, charitable giving can not only make a meaningful impact on the causes you care about but also be an important aspect of your estate plan. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals for guidance and make sure to keep your plan updated.

01/13/2023

In Florida, guardianship is a legal process where a court appointed surrogate takes on the responsibility of making personal and financial decisions for a minor or an adult with mental or physical disabilities.

This process ensures that the individual's best interests are protected, and is only used when no less restrictive alternative is available. Whether it's managing the assets of a minor or making decisions for an adult with a disability, the court oversees the guardian to ensure that the individual's rights are protected.

01/13/2023

A conservator is responsible for managing the financial and personal affairs of someone who is unable to do so, such as an elderly person or a person with a physical or mental disability.

We can help you understand the process of setting up a conservatorship and the responsibilities of a conservator, as well as help you find the right person for the job. It's important to have a conservator in place to ensure that the person's best interests are being taken care of and their assets are being managed responsibly.

Contact us to learn more about how we can assist with the process.

01/06/2023

A revocable trust is a type of trust that can be modified or revoked by the person who created it. This means that they retain control over the trust assets and can make changes to the terms of the trust or even dissolve the trust entirely.

On the other hand, an irrevocable trust is a trust that cannot be modified or revoked once it has been created. This means that they give up control over the trust assets and cannot make any changes to the terms of the trust.

One of the main differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts is the level of control that the grantor has over the trust assets.

The best option depends on individual circumstances. Our team can help determine which could fit best into your estate plan.

01/03/2023

The New Year is a great time to review and update all your beneficiary designations on accounts, such as life insurance policies and retirement accounts.

Don't forget to make sure they are up-to-date to ensure your final wishes are carried out.

01/01/2023

As the new year begins, it's a good time to review and update your estate plan. An estate plan is an important way to protect your assets and provide for your loved ones after you pass away. It can also help to minimize any potential legal disputes or financial challenges that may arise.

Take some time this month to sit down with our team to review your current plan, or create one if you haven't already. It's never too early to start thinking about the future and making sure your wishes are carried out in the way you intended.

Don't let another year go by without taking this important step.

01/01/2023

Happy New Year! We at Your Family Matters would like to take a moment to thank all of our wonderful clients who trusted us with their estate plans in 2022. We are very grateful for your support and confidence in us. We look forward to continuing to serve you in the New Year. Thank you!

12/25/2022

Merry Christmas from our family to yours ❤️

12/25/2022

Having a complete estate plan in place not only gives you peace of mind, but it also ensures that your wishes and desires are carried out after you're gone. Don't leave your loved ones in the dark – take the time to create a plan that protects them and your assets.

12/24/2022

Here are some estate planning tips to consider:

💡 Make a will to decide how you want your assets distributed after you die.

💡 Designate a power of attorney to make decisions for you if you become incapacitated.

💡 Set up a living trust to transfer ownership of your assets while you're alive and avoid probate.

💡 Make a list of your assets and consider who you want to inherit them.

💡 Update your beneficiaries regularly to align with your current wishes.

💡 Plan for long-term care in case of illness or injury.

💡 Consider asset protection strategies to shield your assets from creditors or lawsuits.

💡 Think about tax implications in your estate planning.

💡 Keep your documents organized and accessible to your loved ones.

💡 Review and update your estate plan regularly.

12/22/2022

An end of life wish is a specific request or desire that a person expresses about what they would like to happen during the end of their life. These wishes can cover a wide range of topics, including medical treatment, funeral arrangements, and distribution of assets.

End of life wishes are an important part of estate planning, as they allow individuals to make their wishes known and ensure that they are carried out according to their preferences. They can also provide guidance and comfort to loved ones who may be struggling with difficult decisions during a difficult time.

It is important to communicate your end of life wishes to loved ones and make sure they are documented in a legally binding document, such as a living will or healthcare power of attorney. This helps to ensure that your wishes are respected and carried out, even if you are unable to communicate them yourself.

12/20/2022

Many of our clients from northern states are *pleasantly* surprised to learn that the State of Florida does NOT impose an estate tax, also called an inheritance tax, or a "death tax".

In fact, state lawmaker don't have the ability to! The Florida Constitution prohibits an estate tax from being levied. In order to pass an estate tax, voters in Florida would first have to pass a constitutional amendment to allow for it.

The Federal government, how ever, does impose this sort of tax on estate over a certain amount. Additionally, if a Florida citizen owns land or property in another state which does impose the estate tax, then they may have to pay the tax to that state.

12/20/2022

A guardian is a surrogate decision-maker appointed by the court to make financial and personal decisions for a minor or an adult with certain mental or physical disabilities.

Guardianship is a legal process designed to protect and exercise the rights of individuals who are unable to make decisions for themselves due to functional limitations.

When the court determines that an individual is unable to manage their own affairs, either because they are a minor or because they have a disability, it may appoint a guardian to make decisions on their behalf. The guardian has a duty to act in the best interests of the individual, known as the ward, and to protect their well-being. The ward is a person whom the court has deemed legally incapacitated due to functional limitations.

This is why it is important for a person to, in their estate plan, appoint a trusted individual(s) to represent them, or their children, if something happens to them.

12/17/2022

One key piece of an estate plan is having an advanced healthcare directive in place.

An advanced healthcare directive is an important tool that allows you to plan ahead for medical decisions in case you become incapacitated. It ensures that your wishes are respected and that your loved ones can make the best decisions for you.

It certainly is not an easy topic to think about. But, like many tools in estate planning, it would provide a relief for both you and your family in case it ever were to be needed.

12/14/2022

An optional addition to your estate plan is something called a "letter of intent".

A letter of intent outlines your wishes and plans for your estate. It ensures that your loved ones are taken care of and your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Writing a letter of intent is a thoughtful way to protect your loved ones and ensure that your wishes are carried out.

12/13/2022

There's undoubtedly a lot of documents that can make up a complete estate plan. Don't worry! That's why we are here to guide you through all of the important aspects of your estate plan, and make sure that you feel educated and empowered in your estate planning decisions.

Here's a few of the document names you may hear come up...

🤍 Last Will and Testament.
🤍 Living Trust
🤍 Durable Power of Attorney
🤍 Healthcare Power of Attorney
🤍 Living Will

12/09/2022

Making sure your beneficiaries are named appropriately is a key part of planning your estate.

Often times, a person will designate a beneficiary when they set up a retirement account or a life insurance plan. Swipe to see a few tips to think about on who you can have as your designated beneficiary.

12/08/2022

Remember, your estate plan should always make you feel more comfortable and in control. It gives you the power to...

Give What You Have
To Whom You Want
When You Want
The Way You Want

12/07/2022

Setting up multiple trusts can be a great way to ensure that your assets and wealth are managed in a way that best suits your needs. With multiple trusts, you can customize the terms of each trust to meet your individual requirements, create tax-efficient strategies, and facilitate estate planning.

There are many benefits to setting up multiple trusts, such as protecting your assets, minimizing taxes, and creating a legacy for your family.

12/03/2022

Did you know in Florida you can designate two Power of Attorneys?

Each family and individual circumstances differ. For some, having two Power of Attorneys (POA) can be a helpful way to ensure that your financial and medical affairs are taken care of in the event of your incapacity. There are multiple ways it can be set up, including giving separate set of powers to separate people.

It is always important to choose someone you trust to act in your best interests in the event that you are unable to.

12/02/2022

A carefully drafted will is one of the most important documents you’ll ever create. It allows you to determine who will inherit your assets, who will make decisions on your behalf if you’re ever unable to do so, and how your assets will be distributed.

Don’t leave your loved ones guessing – take the time to ensure your wishes are respected and your assets are protected.

11/29/2022

The holiday season is the most popular time for couples to become engaged 💍 Which makes it the perfect time to discuss a prenuptial agreement 😏

Prenups have received a bad reputation thanks to misrepresentation on movies and TV shows. They are, essentially, a contract the couple signs before the marriage that determines the distribution of assets, debts, alimony, and other issues in the event of divorce.

Prenups do not mean a relationship is doomed for divorce. However, in the event of divorce, it does save the couple quite a bit of heartache during an already emotionally taxing time.

11/26/2022

Dear Friends, Clients & Colleagues... Please join me and a group of wonderful local professionals in celebrating the season AND contributing to our efforts in supporting children in foster care. Our annual Christmas party is coming up next week and we would love for you to join us! You can RSVP at the following link:
http://kbafl.eventbrite.com/

11/26/2022

Our clients frequently ask which major purchases should be included in an estate plan, such as jewelry and new vehicles.

These valuable items should certainly be included in your will, but not necessarily in a living or revokable trust.

For example, vehicles in Florida, in most cases, can be easily transferred to the person named in the will, without having to involve probate.

Is there a new purchase you're considering? Reach out to us!

11/24/2022

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!