ESTATE PLANNING ON MIAMI BEACH-WHEN A LOVED ONE DIES, DOES THE FUNERAL HOME GET PAID FIRST? WHERE DOES THAT MONEY COME FROM?

Two sisters, one with more money than the other, have to fly to their father’s town to plan his funeral and pay for it before it happens and don’t have financial access to his accounts. They are searching and found a safe deposit box key where they think his will could be, but they cannot get in. The bank with accounts in his name alone has advised, the daughters are required to open a probate case in a state they don’t live in. This is reality! This is probate court. And, this is a true story. A true mess during a sad time and a big loss. How do I know about this? 

The Mom/X-wife called as a potential client wanting to update her Florida estate planning documents after witnessing her daughters suffering and trying to get things sorted out while mourning the loss of their father. She flew to be with them for the funeral, but had no information to help them regarding assets or finding the will.   

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE FAMILY IF WE DO NOT PLAN?HOW DO THEY COLLECT AND DISTRIBUTE THE ASSETS?

If there is only a will; probate court is required and it is used as a map for the Judge and the Court. If there is no will, the Florida Intestacy Statute rules and states the legally deserving heirs. Both scenarios are fraught with delays and are often not what the person would have wanted. 

HOW COULD THIS PROBATE SITUATION HAVE BEEN PREVENTED?

That is easy! This could all be prevented with a proper plan. Any plan is better than no plan! And a great, thought out, holistic estate plan which includes a will, trust, health care documents, and powers of attorney for each person is the first step. Call or email today to get started with your planning. 

WHY SHOULD I USE ALLY M. GLASER, PA TO HANDLE MY WILLS AND TRUSTS, ESTATE PLANNING, AND PROBATE MATTERS?

As an Estate Planning, Wills and Trusts and Probate Attorney in Miami Beach, Florida with over twenty-eight years of experience and both a Psychology and Law degree, I handle these matters with knowledge and sensitivity. I am familiar and comfortable with both the Miami-Dade probate court system and Broward County probate court and I know how to get things done. I handle both estate planning and probate cases, thus, I am familiar with the challenges of each and provide my clients with additional protections. Call or email me today to discuss your matters.  I am happy to help you and your loved ones during this important process.