Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What Does a Probate Examiner Do?
The probate process involves several important steps, and if you have been named the executor of an estate, it is essential to follow each one carefully. This may include tasks like submitting the will to probate, notifying creditors, and distributing assets to heirs. Along the way, it also helps to understand the different individuals… Read More »
Proceeding With Probate When an Heir or Beneficiary is Missing
When someone passes away, the executor is responsible for locating and notifying all heirs and beneficiaries. However, situations sometimes arise where an heir cannot be found. This can complicate the process but it does not necessarily stop probate from moving forward. If an heir or beneficiary is missing, the executor is still required to… Read More »
What Happens if an Executor Does Not Handle Probate?
When a person dies, their estate will typically go into probate, unless they have a trust in place. This is done by the executor, who may be listed in the will or appointed by the court. The executor is typically the surviving spouse, adult children, sibling, or other close relative. But let’s face it:… Read More »
Hidden Costs of Probate Most Families Do Not Expect
Probate: it is a dreaded word among Florida families. Dealing with a loved one’s death is hard enough. Having to go through the probate process is even more difficult. Probate is not on anyone’s wish list. Ideally, a person would die and then assets would be distributed without waiting and drama. A trust can… Read More »
Challenging a Will After the Estate Has Closed
At the beginning of probate, there is a lot that can happen. Wills may be hard to find. Creditors may make claims. Heirs may even want to challenge the will. A challenge of a will can happen at any time. However, overturning a will after probate is extremely rare. Probate courts generally respect the… Read More »
What Happens to Copyright After a Creator’s Death?
Nowadays, a lot of people consider themselves to be content creators. Yes, you may fully own your content now, while you are alive, but what happens to it when you die? If you create original works, such as music, books, photos, or software, they are protected as intellectual property under copyright law. Therefore, it… Read More »
How Much Does Probate Cost in Florida?
Nothing is free. Life is expensive, and unfortunately, so is death. After a loved one passes away, a family may be dealing with immense grief. Dealing with probate may be the last thing on their minds, but it is a necessary procedure to settle a person’s estate. Probate in Florida can be expensive, and… Read More »
Life Insurance and Probate: What You Need to Know
Many people purchase life insurance to protect their loved ones financially in the event of their death. Life insurance can provide a significant amount of money to your children, spouses, and other beneficiaries so they can pay for expenses related to your death as well as ongoing bills. But you may wonder how life… Read More »
Are Probate Fees Tax Deductible?
We are just about winding up tax season, with taxes due April 15. We are all trying to get as many deductions as possible so we can lower the amount of tax due. If a loved one died last year and you went through probate, you may wonder: Are probate fees tax deductible? Maybe…. Read More »
What Happens if I Do Not File for Probate?
When someone passes away, their estate typically must go through probate to ensure assets are properly distributed and debts are resolved. Probate is the process of settling a deceased person’s estate. While it is a necessary act, many people try to avoid it. But what happens if no probate is ever filed? The consequences… Read More »