Probate Litigation

When one thinks about probate administration, the word simple rarely -- if ever -- comes to mind. Most people tend to fear this process, as it can be long, drawn-out and somewhat complicated. However, in Florida there is a form of probate estate administration that...

There are many people in Florida and elsewhere that cringe at the word probate. There are a lot of misconceptions about probate litigation. The simple truth is that it can actually be a good thing, and it can help resolve any issues that may arise with the...

Florida residents who have planned their estates have likely done all they can to ensure that any potential issues have not been overlooked. Wanting one's estate to be divided as intended is understandable as is wanting one's beneficiaries to avoid probate litigation...

Those who are charged with closing out an estate in Florida -- for a loved one, friend, client or acquaintance -- have, in a manner of speaking, a lot on their plates. In this process, there are quite a few questions that are likely to come to mind that will need...

It is not necessary for people in Florida to name a family member to be the personal representative of their estate. Also known as an executor, the personal representative is the person or entity charged with administering the testator’s estate after he or she...

While creating or updating your estate plan, it may be worthwhile to take a minute to consider who might step forward to challenge your will after you die. A will challenge is probably unlikely, but it is never impossible that someone will try to get your will tossed...

Long ago, it was common for people to live their entire lives in the same small area, perhaps never travelling more than a few miles away. Today, of course, people tend to travel often, whether for business, vacation or to visit distant relatives. It is also common...

Recently, we have shared a pair of stories about family probate disputes following the death of a celebrity. Many of these cases are about contesting the terms of the celebrity’s will. However, many estate plan disputes are about the testator’s medical...

Once again, we have the story of the estate of a beloved celebrity becoming the subject of litigation. Just a couple of weeks ago, we discussed the battle between Robin Williams’ wife and children over the terms of his trust. High-profile cases like this one show...

The more assets you have, the more complicated it may be to figure out how to distribute your stuff after you pass away. Even a deeply considered and carefully prepared estate plan cannot prevent all possible disputes between beneficiaries during probate. For example,...