Digital signatures, facial ID, thumbprints, crypto-keys, and two-factor identification are all methods of verifying identity. It sometimes seems that an ink signature, in the 21st century, is something quaint and nostalgic. Perhaps we’ll reach a point when we’ve moved beyond written verifications. Florida is the latest state to adopt an electronic notary statute. Will it improve the pace and authenticity of …
A comprehensive estate plan can protect the things that matter most. For many, this means their property and their family. Including provisions for the care of your children in your estate plan is essential for peace of mind. But many parents struggle with including such provisions as naming a legal guardian for their child in their plan. Indeed, even the fictional parents …
Not only does the Sunshine State have white sandy beaches and warm weather year-round, it also has one of the best basic asset protection devices available for married people. For us lucky Floridians, we get to enjoy special forms of joint tenancy. Not everyone can take advantage of the benefits of tenancy by the entireties (TBE) in Florida, but for …
In December 2016, former President Obama signed an important health care access act that will help alleviate the burden of employee health insurance on small businesses. The 21st Century Cures Act will allow, among other things, small businesses to reimburse their employees for individual health insurance if they do not offer a group plan. For small companies with less than 50 …
The arrival of a new family member can make you feel like anything is possible. As you enjoy the precious moments, months, or years of taking care of a child, it’s easy to forget that they may not get the same care after you’re gone. Unfortunately, many children are in this position, suffering unintentional disinheritance simply because of outdated or …
The passing of a loved one often requires us to step into unfamiliar roles. If you have been named as the successor trustee of a living trust, you must understand that trust administration and estate administration are very different animals. Trusts often contain complicated language and legally-binding duties, and making a small error can result in large financial consequences for the trustee. …
This past week I had the pleasure of attending Wealth Counsel’s Symposium in Boston, Massachusetts. This annual conference brings together some of the best minds in the estate planning and business law field from around the country. This year’s conference featured some of the top experts in their fields. It was a fantastic experience and, respectfully stated, I’m smarter than …
Baby boomers know money isn’t the only important aspect of estate planning. A 2012 study released by the Allianz Life Insurance, Co. showed baby boomers wanted to leave their family more than just financial assets. Researchers found baby boomers identified family values as some of the most important things to pass down to heirs. In 2012’s economic climate, it’s no …
Raising a grandchild (or even spending a lot of time with your grandchild while his or her parents work) can be fraught with legal and financial complications. Lacking many of the inherent rights parents have, grandparents who are responsible for the care of their grandchildren may encounter unexpected legal challenges. Even if you are your grandchild’s full-time caregiver, consider obtaining …
Of the handful of major life events that require your serious consideration, few are as emotionally charged as how to leave your assets for loved ones at the time of your death. This often complex process is accomplished via testamentary documents such as wills and trusts, which have recently become available for purchase online as standard forms. Many of us …
