Estate Planning for Non-Traditional Families and Unmarried Partners
Estate planning is essential for everyone, but for non-traditional families and unmarried partners, it can be absolutely critical. Without the legal protections that marriage automatically provides, individuals in these relationships must take deliberate steps to ensure their loved ones are included in important decisions and inheritances.
Whether you’re in...
Estate Planning for Family Cabins and Vacation Properties
For many families, a cabin in the woods, a beachfront condo, or a lakefront retreat isn’t just real estate—it’s a place of cherished memories, family traditions, and emotional value. But as generations pass, the question becomes: How do we keep the vacation property in the family without conflict?
Without...
What Are the Differences Between an Executor, Personal Representative, Trustee, Agent / Power of Attorney, Health Care Surrogate, and Guardian?
When my clients and I discuss their estate planning documents and advance directives (Wills, Trusts, Durable Powers of Attorney, Living Wills & Designations of Health Care Surrogates, and Nominations of Guardians for Incapacity and for Minor Children), I explore their wishes about who will be responsible for various roles in their estate...
How Long After Death Do You Have to File Probate?
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is emotionally challenging. In the midst of grief, family members often find themselves facing legal and financial responsibilities, one of the most important being probate. If you’re wondering how long after a person’s death you have to file probate in Florida, you’re not alone.
The Difference Between Elder Law and Estate Law
When planning for the future, it’s important to understand the different types of legal services available to protect your rights, assets, and well-being. Two commonly confused areas are elder law and estate law (or estate planning). While both are concerned with planning for the future, they serve distinct purposes and focus on...
What is the Difference Between a Will and Estate Planning?
When most people think about preparing for the future, the first thing that comes to mind is creating a will. While a will is certainly an essential part of the process, it’s just one piece of a much larger picture called estate planning.
At Verras Law, P.A., we...
Should You Place Your House in a Trust?
When it comes to estate planning, one of the most common questions Florida homeowners ask is: Should I place my house in a trust? For many families in Palm Harbor, Tampa, and St. Petersburg, the answer is yes—but not always. Like any estate planning decision, it depends on your unique circumstances, financial...
Do You Need a Lawyer to Write a Will in Florida?
Creating a will is an essential part of estate planning, ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing. In Florida, you are not legally required to hire a lawyer to draft a will, but doing so can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your document is...
What Are the Steps in the Estate Planning Process?
Estate planning is a crucial process that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes, protects your loved ones, and minimizes legal complications after your passing. While it may seem complex, a well-structured estate plan provides peace of mind and financial security for your family. At Verras Law, P.A., we...
The Role of Life Insurance in Estate Planning
Estate planning is about more than just drafting a will—it’s about securing your family’s financial future and ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Life insurance plays a crucial role in estate planning, offering financial security, covering estate taxes, and providing liquidity to heirs. At Verras Law, P.A., we...