Do You Need an Opinion of Title in Florida?
Some cities and counties in Florida require an attorney opinion of title for certain real estate matters (such as a Unity of Title, water and sewer setup, zoning, development or permitting). Some lenders also require an attorney opinion of title letters, often for real estate transactions.
A Guide to Qualifying for the Shortened Probate Process in Florida
Navigating the probate process can be a daunting task, but for heirs of Florida property, there's a glimmer of hope in the form of a shortened probate process. This streamlined approach aims to simplify the distribution of assets and provide a faster resolution for beneficiaries. In this article, we'll explore the key...
What Is the Florida Summary Administration Process? Probate Rules for Small Estates.
Probate estate procedure may vary from state to state, but many states have similar laws that allow a simplified estate procedure if the value of a deceased's estate falls below a certain amount. Florida is no exception. The simplified estate procedure in Florida is called Summary Administration.
What...
How Does a Life Estate Work in Florida?
Among the many estate planning tools available in Florida is a legal mechanism known as a “Life Estate.” Its primary advantage is allowing you to transfer property to your beneficiaries upon death without going through probate.
Depending on the size and complexity of your estate, Florida probate proceedings...
Understanding Ancillary Administration for Non-Florida Residents
Given the widespread appeal of Florida’s dynamic real estate market, it is not uncommon for individuals who reside in a different state or country to own a seasonal or income property in Florida. However, if someone with real property in Florida dies while a resident of another state or country, their estate...
The Summary Administration Probate Process in Florida
If an individual dies owning assets in his or her name alone (“probatable assets”), a probate court proceeding must often take place to determine who is to receive the assets and how the assets will be distributed. This is true even if the deceased left a Last Will & Testament. The Will...
A Quick Guide to Florida Probate
To some people, the very term "probate” may invoke fear about a bureaucratic and costly process involving a deceased individual’s estate. But those with the facts – and a qualified Probate Lawyer by their side – will find that Florida probate law is nothing to be feared or dreaded.
How Do You Change or Dissolve a Life Estate Deed In Florida?
In Florida, life estate deeds are estate planning tools that allow individuals to own and live in a property while they are still living while giving a future interest to their beneficiaries (who avoid the probate process upon the owner’s death). However, what happens if the person creating the life estate...
Florida Probate for Small Estates
Probate is a court-supervised process for identifying, gathering, and distributing an individual’s assets, transferring the title of the assets to the beneficiaries of the probate estate, and resolving any mandatory creditor claims. It can be a time-consuming and costly process, requiring the filing of specialized documents and compliance with specific laws and procedures.
The Definitive Guide to Probate for Foreign Nationals
If you are among the thousands of foreign nationals who own real estate and other assets in Florida, be aware that Florida law has special requirements and protocols for non-U.S. citizens who own property in Florida at the time of their death. Probate for foreign nationals involves the intersection of state, federal,...