Posted in Asset Protection,Probate & Trust Administration,Real Estate Law,Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

As the saying goes, “anyone who believes in free will has never heard of probate.”  Attorneys are frequently contacted by clients who need help navigating estates after the loss of a family member or friend.  Probate is often inevitable if there is property to be divided.
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Posted in Asset Protection,Probate & Trust Administration,Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

What is the difference between a revocable trust and a will?  Should I create a revocable trust? These are among the most frequently asked estate planning questions at our office. Here are some advantages of a revocable trust: 
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Posted in Business & Corporate Law,Real Estate Law

For some St. Augustine homeowners, vacation rentals are a steady source of income, but others argue that this revenue isn’t worth the cost to the community and describe these transient rentals as a “nuisance.”  Transient rentals are units or homes that are rented more than three times in a calendar year for a period of less than 30 days.  A search in the St. Augustine area for Airbnb or VRBO reveals that the industry is alive and well.   
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Posted in Tax Law & IRS Defense

Taxpayers should know that the IRS cannot typically levy your assets without first giving you notice.  There are a few exceptions to this general rule, however.  For instance, the IRS may levy without prior notice if it feels collection of the tax is in jeopardy or when the IRS levies a state tax refund.  Absent an exception, the IRS will typically provide a formal Notice of Intent to Levy prior to levying any of a taxpayer’s assets.
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Posted in Asset Protection,Probate & Trust Administration,Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

This year, National Healthcare Decisions Day is not just a day but an event lasting from April 16 to 22.  This event is a national initiative to provide awareness and inspire adults to do or review their healthcare planning.
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Posted in Asset Protection,Probate & Trust Administration,Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

Many of Florida’s senior citizens and families have reason to celebrate the 2017-2018 Annual Budget, which recommends $315.5 million for the Florida Department of Elder Affairs.
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Posted in Business & Corporate Law,Tax Law & IRS Defense

Transient rentals are a thriving business in Florida, and one which many Florida real estate owners may utilize in an attempt to supplement their income.  Generally speaking, a transient rental is one that lasts for less than six (6) months.  What many property owners do not know is that transient rentals are subject to Florida sales tax.  Florida law requires that property owners charge to, and collect from, each transient guest an additional six percent (6%).
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Posted in Asset Protection,Probate & Trust Administration,Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

Often, people explain that they do not have enough assets to need an estate plan.  However, regardless of the value of assets you have, reviewing your personal financial plan from a legal and estate plan perspective is highly recommended.  In fact, even those who have substantial debt may be able to pass assets on to beneficiaries.  Everyone can benefit from creating and reviewing an estate plan including the elderly, married couples, parents with minor children and singles.
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