estate planning attorneys

6 Ways to Avoid Guardianship

Published on: July 15, 2024 | by Rarick & Bowden Gold

By Jacqueline R. Bowden Gold, Miami Estate Planning Attorney

Many people are concerned about their family avoiding probate upon their passing, but how can you avoid guardianship proceedings? As people age, the risk of cognitive decline and physical disabilities can sometimes necessitate guardianship, where a court appoints someone to make decisions on behalf of the elder. However, guardianship can be restrictive and often perceived as a loss of autonomy. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid guardianship and ensure that you or your elder family members retain control over their lives and decisions for as long as possible. These measures are not only essential for maintaining independence but also crucial for avoiding guardianship proceedings and reducing associated costs. Here are some effective strategies:

Avoid Guardianship for Elder

Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA)

The Paycheck Protection Fund Is Dry – But Don’t Give Up!

Published on: April 20, 2020 | by Rarick & Bowden Gold

by: Phillip B. Rarick, Esq.

Here is the good news/bad news I received from my bank today regarding my Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Application: The good news: your application has been approved; the bad: the SBA is out of money and you must wait for Congress to refund the program!

Although I have heard of a few small businesses that have received funding I am guessing that most persons reading this letter have encountered similar frustrations. Note: if you have received funding, please so reply.

Stimulus Checks Update: How Much? When?

Published on: April 16, 2020 | by Rarick & Bowden Gold

How Much?

Here is an updated calculator from Turbotax: Stimulus Check Calculator

When Will Checks Arrive?

11 Point Estate Planning Checklist for 2010

Published on: November 26, 2010 | by Rarick & Bowden Gold

______ #1. Trust Funding. After we signed your trust, we reviewed the funding of your trust and I gave you detailed Funding Notes. Have you followed up on these instructions? Funding is simply the transfer of your assets into your trust. It is a good idea to annually review the funding of your trust. It is also advisable to annually sign a new assignment of assets into your trust, that will help sweep into the trust assets acquired to date.

______#2. Successor Trustee. This is the person you have appointed to step into your legal shoes if you become incapacitated – in other words, one of the most important decisions you can make. Who have you appointed to take charge if you are incapacitated? What is the order of succession of trustees who will take over management of your financial affairs if you are unable to do so? If you have any question whatsoever about your order of succession, please call the office.

______#3. Transitions. Has there been a marriage, divorce, or separation of anyone named in your will or trust? Has there been a birth or adoption of a child or grandchild? If so, your estate plan may need to be amended.

Florida Single Member LLC’s Have No Charging Order Protection

Published on: October 18, 2010 | by Rarick & Bowden Gold

Who is Impacted by this Decision:

Anyone with ownership interest in a single member Florida limited liability company (LLC).

Executive Summary: