Recent Blog Posts
Trustees, Executors, and AI: How Technology Is Changing Fiduciary Administration
Technology is reshaping almost every aspect of our lives, and fiduciary administration is no exception. Trustees and executors in Florida are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital tools to streamline tasks, reduce errors, and improve transparency. But as with any innovation, the use of AI in fiduciary roles raises important questions… Read More »
Estate Planning Is a Family Affair: Why You Shouldn’t Leave Your Loved Ones in the Dark
When it comes to estate planning, many people assume it’s a private matter that should be kept confidential until after they pass. But that mindset can create more harm than good. Failing to include your loved ones in the planning process can lead to confusion, conflict, and even legal disputes during an already emotionally… Read More »
The Role of “Domicile” in a Florida Probate Proceeding
At Bleakley Bavol Denman & Grace, we understand that estate administration is all about the legal details. For example, when it comes to administering a probate estate, the first thing that needs to be established is the deceased person’s “domicile.” In simple terms, domicile refers to a person’s legal residence. While many people have… Read More »
Planning for Your Art Collection: What to Do With Artwork in Your Estate Plan
For many collectors, artwork is more than an asset—it’s a personal passion, a legacy, and sometimes a significant investment. Whether you own a single valuable painting or a curated collection of fine art, it’s essential to include your artwork in your estate plan. Failing to do so could leave your heirs facing unexpected taxes,… Read More »
What Are the Legal Risks of Leaving Your House to More Than One Child in Florida?
If you are a parent of multiple children, one of your estate planning goals may be to ensure they each receive an equal share of your estate or trust. This can be relatively simple when it comes to liquid assets like checking or brokerage accounts–just split things down the middle. When it comes to… Read More »
Can You Sell a Florida House Held Under a Life Estate Deed?
If you are looking to keep your home within the family after you die, a life estate or enhanced life estate (or Lady Bird) deed may be the answer. Such deeds can transfer property outside of the normal Florida probate process, but they also carry certain risks and restrictions. The Tampa estate planning attorneys… Read More »
From What Date Do You Measure Damages in Florida Construction Litigation?
Construction litigation often arises when one party accuses the other of breach of contract. For example, a contractor sues a customer for non-payment. Or perhaps the customer sues the contractor for defective work that failed to meet the agreed-upon quality standards. If you find yourself in either situation, the experienced Tampa construction litigation attorneys… Read More »
Alternatives to Guardianship in Florida: Protecting Your Loved One’s Future Without Full Court Oversight
When an aging parent, disabled adult, or minor child needs assistance managing their affairs, full guardianship may seem like the only option. However, guardianship is a significant legal step that involves court oversight and limits an individual’s rights. Fortunately, Florida law provides several alternatives that allow families to protect their loved ones while preserving… Read More »
Protecting Vulnerable Adults: How to Prevent Financial Exploitation in Florida
Financial exploitation of vulnerable adults is a growing concern in Florida, particularly for the elderly and those with cognitive impairments. Exploiters—whether strangers, caregivers, or even family members—often take advantage of their victims through fraud, undue influence, or outright theft. Florida law provides several safeguards to protect at-risk adults, and Bleakley Bavol Denman & Grace… Read More »
From Probate to Partnership: How Children Can Legally Operate Rental Properties After a Parent’s Death
When a parent who owns rental properties passes away, their children often find themselves facing two difficult realities: grieving the loss of a loved one while also managing valuable income-generating real estate. If there is no clear estate plan, the process can feel overwhelming. However, once the estate has been settled through probate, children… Read More »