Clients who are moving or have moved from New York to Florida frequently ask if the wills prepared for them in New York are valid. The short answer is yes, they are. Florida attorneys may tell clients differently, but the reality is that as long as one can produce a sworn affidavit stating that...
Tips for Being a Snowbird on a Budget
Are you tired of the cold but concerned about the cost? If so, you aren’t alone. Although many people aspire to live the snowbird lifestyle, expenses often get in the way of making this dream a reality. However, what most people don’t realize is that, with a little planning, the snowbird lifestyle is available...
How a Business Can Successfully Deal with Employees
For the business owner, especially small, family-run businesses, relationships with employees need to be handled properly so as to avoid unnecessary litigation and turmoil within the workplace. As a starter, even with a small business, you should have an employee handbook, which clearly explains the duties and obligations of both employer and employee. Set...
New York’s New Power of Attorney Legislation
On December 15, 2020, Governor Cuomo signed a new bill into law which is designed to simplify the power of attorney form used in the State of New York and make it easier for clients to have the form recognized by institutions. A power of attorney is an essential estate planning document which usually...
Will vs. Living Trust: What is the Best Option for You?
When it comes to estate planning, there’s a lot to consider. In addition to deciding who to leave your assets to after you pass, you must determine which estate planning instruments are the most appropriate for your unique situation. In this article, we examine the differences between a will and a living trust. In...
Is Estate Planning Necessary?
For a variety of reasons, many people are under the impression that they don’t need an estate plan. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Estate planning is for everyone. Without an estate plan in place, settling your affairs after you’re gone could have a long-lasting and costly impact on your loved ones. In...
Estate Tax Law Changes On the Horizon
There has been a good deal of talk lately about changes to the tax laws, with the primary purpose of closing loopholes and having the wealthy pay more in taxes. Two proposals, if enacted, could have serious consequences for people who are engaging in estate planning.
One proposal being touted is reducing the federal estate...
Snowbird Moving Tips
Florida is a haven for people looking to escape the cold winter months in New York and other northern states. Those who come to Florida each winter to escape the frigid northern temperatures are affectionately known as "snowbirds." If you are a northerner who is considering spending your next winter down south, there are...
A Comparison of Probate and Wills in Florida and New York
Generally speaking, if you execute a last will and testament which conforms to the requirements set by the State in which you are a resident, that will is valid in every state. In Florida, the execution requirements are a bit more stringent than they are in New York. Not only must the witnesses sign...
Preventing Elder Exploitation with an Estate Plan
Elderly people are highly vulnerable to financial exploitation. This is because cognitive impairment often diminishes the ability of older adults to make sound financial decisions and to detect scams. Florida, with its large senior population, is a hotbed of elder exploitation. In this article, we examine the ways in which an estate plan can...