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A power of attorney (POA) document authorizes a person to act on another’s behalf in private affairs, business matters or any other legal matter specified in the document. The “principal” is the person who authorized someone else to act on their behalf. The “agent” is...
When developing and signing estate documents, it is imperative that you are clear in your wishes. Otherwise, after you have passed, your heirs may dispute your decisions. Going to court to settle an estate is time-consuming, stressful and emotionally draining. You...
Sadly, many people believe that seniors are easy targets for financial exploitation. In a survey taken by Allianz Life Insurance Co. of 2,000 adults, the senior participants reported losing an average of $30,000, while some reported losing more than $100,000. The most...
Being named the guardian of an incapacitated person is a huge responsibility. The guardian must be diligent about matters concerning their ward’s finances and healthcare. If you feel as though the appointed guardian of your loved one is not fulfilling their duties,...
As the name implies, a successor trustee is a trusted individual who handles the duties connected with your revocable trust in the event you lose capacity during your lifetime, and settles all remaining issues after you die. As such, your first impulse might be to...
Trusts: TBE or not TBE Florida favors married couples holding their property as tenants by the entireties (TBE). Probate is avoided as the property passes to the surviving spouse by operation of law. Further, the tenancy provides creditor protection. In essence,...
Assuming every asset under your sole control is held in trust, it is possible for your heirs to avoid probate. Similarly, certain jointly owned assets are protected from probate, such as a home titled to you and your spouse with the right to survivorship. However,...
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are approximately five (5) million Americans who have some type of dementia. Close to 50% of all people over the age of 85 have Alzheimer’s disease or another kind of dementia. Diminished capacity is more prevalent as...
Concerns about physical abuse and neglect are a primary reason that many people choose in-home care for their elderly loved ones. Unfortunately, even recipients of in-home care can still experience forms of abuse — and financial abuse may be most prevalent in these...
In a typical suburban neighborhood, homeowners have easy access to their property through the use of public roads. However, not all Florida property works this way. In some cases, owners are essentially landlocked and need to use neighboring property to get to and...