Wills, Probate

Trusts, Estate Planning

140 South Beach Street, Suite 310
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
(386) 257-3332

Personal Representative

Hello Heidi,

My name is Bill S. I am the youngest child of Tony and Ann S. We have never met, but from what I have seen and heard from my Dad, you have done some amazing things to help him. He has praised your efforts enormously to both me and my Brother Bob.

I wanted to reach out and send a quick note of appreciation for helping him through a very tough time. Although you may have not received much in the way of money for your work on this, (My Dad shared with me your bill), please know that you have made an enormous difference in our lives.

My Dad has been a “prisoner” in his house for a few years now, and the help that he has been able to get through your assistance, has been truly invaluable. I was down there last week and we had a few tough days. I am not sure what we have done without the assistance that you helped provide.

Thank you dearly for all you have done, you have truly been an angel for our family. God Bless You and your family!!!

~ Bill S.

Hi Heidi,

Just a note to say thank you for being so helpful and kind to my co-workers. I recommend you to anyone who needs an attorney like you.

If all attorneys were like you, maybe they would not have such a bad rep.

~ Debbie J.

Q: What is the most common mistake you find in your practice?

most common estate planning mistake

Answer:  Naming an out of state –non-blood related– Personal Representative. We see this mistake made in a few Wills every year: the decedent names a non-resident of Florida, such as a close friend, or an out of state attorney as their Personal Representative. These individuals would not qualify to serve under Florida Law. 

The answer is thoroughly outlined in Fla. Stat. §733.304. A nonresident who is not domiciled in the state of Florida cannot qualify as Personal Representative unless:

  1. A legally adopted child or adoptive parent of the decedent;
  2. Related by lineal consanguinity to the decedent [a/k/a blood relative];
  3. A spouse, or a brother, sister, uncle, aunt, nephew, or niece of the decedent, or someone related by lineal consanguinity to any such person; or
  4. The spouse of a person who otherwise qualified under this section.

This mistake is a good example of why reviewing your Estate Planning documents every few years with the help of your Attorney is crucial to avoid mistakes. If you are unsure about the named Personal Representative in your Estate Plan or do not have an Estate Plan at all, make an appointment with an Estate Planning Attorney where you live. If you are located in the Daytona Beach area, call my office for a free consultation.

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