I ran across an article by Gallup that found that less than half of Americans (46%) have a Will. To be honest, I figured it would be lower than that. So many people want to avoid the topic of death that I think it prevents a lot of people from even contemplating executing a Will. […]
Widerman Malek Law Blog
What Every Florida Contractor Needs to Have in Their Contracts
Over the years, I have reviewed many estimates and contracts from various types of contractors and homeowners. In most cases, I have found that the contractor did not include several items required by Florida law to be in their estimates or contracts. These are:
How Do I Put a Lien on a Vessel in Florida?
In Florida, maritime liens are authorized under both federal law, under 46 U.S.C. § 31342, and by statute. If you are interested in federal maritime liens, the Sarasota County Bar Association has a helpful article here. Under Florida law, a marina can put a maritime lien on a vessel for unpaid costs, storage charges, or […]
Guardianship Basics Part IV: What are the steps to having a Guardianship set up?
By: J. Mason Williams IV The first step in setting up a guardianship is determining whether a guardianship is appropriate. Things to consider include whether the individual possibly needing a guardianship (“Alleged Incapacitated Person”) has any advance health care directives or already has a guardianship in place. Next the type of guardianship you believe is necessary should […]
Guardianship Basics Part III: Who should have a guardianship set up?
By: J. Mason Williams IV A guardianship may be needed for someone who does not have any advance health care directives, i.e., power of attorney, health care surrogate, etc. Typically, the individuals in need of a guardianship include the elderly, minors, and the developmentally disabled. When a person decides to petition a court for a guardianship, […]
Guardianship Basics Part II: Why do I need a Guardianship in place?
By: J. Mason Williams IV A person is typically in need of a guardianship if they have no advance health care directives, cannot take care of themselves or their assets, and they are in danger of hurting themselves or others. It must be a determination made by the court system, not just a medical doctor, psychologist, […]
Guardianship Basics Part I: What is a Guardianship?
By: J. Mason Williams IV The Florida Bar defines a guardianship as “a legal proceeding in the circuit courts of Florida in which a guardian is appointed to exercise the legal rights of an incapacitated person and is governed by Chapter 744, Florida Statutes.” What Is Guardianship? Pamphlet. So what does that mean? Well, it means […]
