Tag Archives: Blog
The importance of having a will
It is so important that you have a properly drafted will in place. Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa, passed away Dec. 5. He had a will that will divide up his estate, which has an estimated value of $4.1 million, excluding royalties. A family trust was also set up to provide for… Read More »
Politics & the law
Can politics trump the law? Amanda Knox was once again convicted — in Italy — of murdering her roommate. Once the case is appealed and if upheld, will she be extradited? If the law is followed, Knox, will be extradited to Italy, as we have an extradition treaty with that country. But in this… Read More »
Planning during tough times
When you or a loved one is diagnosed with a serious illness, it makes sense to keep in close contact with a doctor. But what about your attorney? While it may not be the most pressing issue, a little bit of planning can save you and your family a lot of headache. There are… Read More »
Be careful with your car
Many parents have their names on their child’s automobile. This is required if the child is under 18 because minors cannot own property. This may also be the case if the car is financed. However, if the child 18 and there is no debt on the automobile, it is always a good idea to… Read More »
Loan modifications
One of the biggest complaints in attempting to modify your mortgage is the paperwork. Horror stories are everywhere! Currently if your loan is owned or guaranteed by Fannie or Freddie and you are 90 days or more past due, you can be offered a loan modification without all of the paperwork. This new program… Read More »
Three day right of recission
Recently, someone called me with buyer’s remorse after purchasing a vehicle. They were under the impression that there was a three day right of recission on this purchase, meaning that the vehicle could be returned within three days of purchase. This is not the case. This rule only applies if a lien will be… Read More »
Life estate deed
One of my favorite estate planning tools is the Life Estate Deed. It is also known as an “Enhanced Life Estate Deed” or “Ladybird Deed.” Basically, this deed transfers ownership of property to someone else – but you retain ownership of the property for your life. You still get to keep your homestead exemption… Read More »
Personal injury attorneys
We are inundated with personal injury attorney ads on TV and billboards. With all this information bombarding you each day, how do you make a decision? If an attorney can afford a TV ad, does that make him or her a qualified personal injury attorney? Recently the Tampa Bay Times revealed that one law… Read More »
A few more reasons to get a will
If you have minor children, there are three very important reasons to have a will. First is to nominate someone to be the guardian of your children. Without your input, the court will appoint a guardian based upon certain legal standards. Second, you need to ensure the children do not get all of the… Read More »
Permanent alimony
Currently there is a bill pending with the Florida Legislature to eliminate permanent alimony. One thing I have learned over the 40 years practicing law is that permanent alimony is not permanent. This type of alimony can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances unanticipated since the entry of the Final… Read More »
