When Jerry Garcia—lead guitarist, cultural icon, and the spiritual force behind the Grateful Dead—passed away in August 1995, he left behind more than psychedelic solos and beloved albums. He also left behind an estate tangled in legal disputes, financial chaos,…
When the “Queen of Soul” passed away in 2018, the world mourned a voice like no other. But behind the scenes, Aretha Franklin’s family faced a years-long legal mess that could have been avoided with just one thing: a clear,…
In 2025, Americans born in 1960 are reaching age 65, a milestone that for decades has been associated with retirement. Many people still think of 65 as the age to claim full Social Security retirement benefits. But for those born…
When most people think about estate planning, they focus on wills, trusts, and bank accounts. But in today’s world, there’s another category of assets that often gets overlooked—digital assets. From email and social media to online banking, photo storage, and…
Health care planning is a vital aspect of ensuring your wishes are respected when you’re unable to make decisions for yourself. However, selecting a health care surrogate and communicating your desires can be fraught with emotional and relational challenges—especially in…
In moments of crisis, time is of the essence. Whether it’s a car accident or a medical emergency, getting in touch with loved ones quickly can make a world of difference. Florida’s Emergency Contact Information (ECI) system addresses this critical…
Losing a spouse is a heartache no one is truly prepared for. Amid the emotional whirlwind, financial concerns often feel overwhelming. But here’s some relief you might not know about: Florida’s widow/widower homestead exemption. This program offers a meaningful way…
If you’re tempted to save money by using a do-it-yourself (DIY) will kit or an online template, a recent Florida court case might change your mind. It’s a sobering reminder that in estate planning, small mistakes can lead to big…
In the digital age, your estate is more than just financial accounts and property—it includes your online footprint and, in some cases, your genetic identity. That reality has come into sharp focus with the recent news that 23andMe has officially…
If you’re planning to leave a retirement account to your children—or you’ve recently inherited an IRA or 401(k)—a critical tax rule is now in effect that could impact your financial strategy. As of January 1, 2025, the final IRS rule…