Recent Blog Posts
Understanding Florida Probate Administration
It is not uncommon for a loved one or relative to die intestate (without a will). Unfortunately, when estate planning does not occur prior to one’s passing, relatives must prepare for probate administration. Despite its necessity, probate is not straight-forward. However, there are tips and strategies our attorneys at Strategic Counsel Law Group can… Read More »
Determining Adult Mental Capacity In An Elder Guardianship Proceeding
Melissa is worried about her father Ken. He was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease and since then has acted erratically. Last week he drove to the grocery store, then got disoriented, could not find the car, and walked halfway home until he collapsed. He is also becoming increasingly belligerent and accidentally spent a couple… Read More »
Contesting A Decedent’s Will In Hillsborough And Pinellas Counties
A good friend passed away last month leaving a sizable estate and detailed instructions in their will. That friend had four children, ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Now her children are arguing about the contents of the will, why the eldest was made personal representative and whether the eldest child exercised undue influence over… Read More »
Concerned About Your Pets? Consider Drafting A Florida Pet Trust
Pets are family. Entire industries are devoted to sending us treats, toys and medicine in the mail for our beloved four-legged family members. Dogs, cats, reptiles and fish also make great companions for our elderly loved ones. While discussing estate and legacy planning can be difficult to address, many people unfortunately fail to consider… Read More »
Implementing Safety & Security Protocols To Prevent Elder Identity Theft & Fraud In Your Family
Last week, your friend’s mom, Alice, was duped into wiring $5,000 to a complete stranger, purporting to be her granddaughter who had been arrested and desperately needed bail money. The scam artist knew Alice’s family history, her granddaughter’s name, birthday, current address and school, so Alice assumed it had to be a legitimate call…. Read More »
Qualifying For A Medicaid Waiver In Florida
Your elderly father was just diagnosed with Alzheimers’ disease and will require round the clock care. You are not sure how to best assist him because you cannot quit your job to provide primary caregiving duties but you also know he refuses to go to a nursing home. How will you pay for a… Read More »
What Is A Health Care Power Of Attorney And How Do You Choose One?
Many people assume that drafting a will is the first and last component of estate planning, but this is not true. Drafting a will and updating that will is only one piece of adequate estate and care planning. No matter what age you are, it is wise to designate a health care power of… Read More »
Understanding The Importance Of Long-Term Care Planning
Many couples approaching retirement or enjoying retirement assume they are prepared for advanced aging if they have saved for retirement and maintain a life insurance policy. Unfortunately, if either spouse requires long term care, a home health nurse or round the clock assisted living care, their expenses could well exceed what they have saved…. Read More »
Estate Planning Basics For New Parents
New parents have a lot on their mind. Adjusting to your new life as a family of three or four takes time. There are diapers to change, napping schedules to figure out, tummy time exercises and sleepless nights. Many parents assume that finding a pediatrician and suitable nanny or daycare is most of the… Read More »
What Are Irrevocable And Revocable Trusts?
The past year has been difficult for the country and the world. In Florida, more than over 36,000 people have died due to complications from COVID-19. While vaccinations are available, it remains crucial to start planning for your estate and end-of life wishes. This includes drafting or updating a will, creating a durable power… Read More »