CORONA VIRUS PART 4 -ESTATE PLANNING IN MIAMI BEACH, FL AND THE NEED TO GET YOUR AFFAIRS IN ORDER

We are in August of 2020 and still dealing with rising numbers of deaths due to the Corona virus. The growing numbers of cases and deaths are getting our Miami Beach residents to get their estate plans in order. I received a call from a couple who live together but are not married asking me if they are covered in the case of illness or death. The answer is no. A couple who lives together are not treated as if they are married and need proper estate planning to make their desires known. There is no common law marriage in the state of Florida. 

THE TIME IS NOW FOR ESTATE PLANNING

People often think they will live a very long life and hopefully, they will, but a good estate plan is important. Estate planning is like wearing a mask in Corona virus times. The mask is to protect others mostly as is estate planning. Estate planning is done to protect those you love. Some people set up estate plans for their kids, their pets, their relationships, and even charities they want to give to upon their death.

WHAT DOES ESTATE PLANNING INCLUDE?

Estate planning includes wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and health care documents. Health care documents are only used if you cannot make health care decisions for yourself. Power of Attorney allow your chosen person to make financial decisions for you if you are unable. Trusts avoid probate court and guardianship court and detail your wishes regarding your loved ones and assets. A will alone does not protect you, it merely serves as a map for the probate court to follow. A trust is required for maximum protection of your assets and loved ones. 

WHAT IS PROBATE COURT IN MIAMI, FL AND WHY DO WE WANT TO AVOID IT?

Probate is the court process required when someone dies with assets in their own name. We want to avoid probate court involvement because it is time consuming, expensive, and often causes delays for the family and loved ones left behind. For example, even if you are legally married and your spouse dies owning your house or apartment in their name alone where you both live together, an attorney must be hired to initiate a probate administration case and the attorney must prove that you are the legal spouse and that you are entitled to continue to live in your home. Can you imagine having to prove that you are legally entitled to live in your own home?

WHY SHOULD YOU USE ALLY M. GLASER, PA TO HANDLE YOUR WILLS AND TRUSTS, ESTATE PLANNING IN MIAMI BEACH AND MIAMI-DADE AND BROWARD PROBATE MATTERS?

As a Miami Beach Estate Planning, Wills and Trusts and Probate Attorney in Miami Beach with over twenty-three years of experience and both a Psychology and Law degree, I handle these matters with care and sensitivity. I am familiar and comfortable with both the Broward County and Miami-Dade probate court system and know how to get things done. Call or email me today to discuss your Estate Planning, Wills and Trusts and Broward or Miami-Dade County Probate matters.  I am happy to help you and your loved ones.