Protect the Things You’re Most Thankful For

 

At this time of year, many people are taking a moment to reflect on the people and things that they are most grateful for in their lives. What is most important to you? No doubt family is at the top of your list. You may also have a special sense of pride for the things […]

9 Estate Planning Terms to Know

When visiting a foreign country, it helps to know common words and phrases. Similarly, when navigating an area of law that seems foreign to you, understanding the definitions of the terms most often used can help you to understand the process and the final outcome. This is important, since you want to be sure that […]

Estate Planning Defined

Is a feeling of bewilderment or unfamiliarity holding you back from estate planning? For many, a leading cause of procrastination in planning for the future is being intimidated by the terms associated with this area of law. Even the concept of ‘estate planning’ can sound ambiguous. In this article, we’ll break down estate planning in […]

Don’t Make the Same Mistake as These 5 Famous Figures

What surprising thing do the following famous figures have in common?

Abraham Lincoln
Pablo Picasso
Howard Hughes
Bob Marley
Stieg Larsson

They all died intestate…or in layman terms: they didn’t have a will. Some names on the list may not be as surprising as others, such as free-spirited types like Pablo Picasso or Bob Marley. But it’s hard to imagine a […]

Time to Make Your Move – 3 Steps to Take Now that Will Pay Off in the Future

Long-term planning and tax planning are two of the top concerns for Americans looking to create a secure future. As an estate planning attorney with years of experience in tax law, Belinda France has helped many individuals and families identify and implement a plan that results in tax savings and effective succession planning. Even if […]

Fact or Fiction: Test Your Estate Planning Knowledge

Understanding the essential facts about estate planning is vital to making sure that your assets are protected and your wishes are followed. Making decisions based on misconceptions regarding estate planning can lead to financial frustrations or worse. Test your ability to discern fact from fiction when it comes to these common beliefs about estate planning:

Florida […]

3 Reasons Why Even Single People Should See an Estate Planning Attorney

There are many misconceptions about estate planning. At France Law, we have seen many complications arise when individuals overlook important facts about estate planning. One common fallacy that creates problems is the notion that single individuals don’t have a need for estate planning. Here are the three key reasons why even those without marital attachment […]

Facts and Figures: Get to Know the Tax Code

Taxes are something that everyone pays, but few people feel they really understand. And it’s no wonder why – the Tax Code and associated regulations and case law make up a very big body of governing policy. Tax attorneys spend years studying the laws – and a lifetime keeping up with changes. Learn more about […]

New Check Writing Rule Underscores Importance of Keeping Up with IRS Rule Changes

Need to pay the IRS $100 million? Don’t write a check. As of today, the IRS says it will no longer accept checks for more than $99,999,999.99. Citing machine processing limitations, tax agency says that checks of more than 10 digits have to be processed by hand – increasing the risk for fraud, errors, and […]

Estate Planning for Blended Families

Remarriage is on the rise in the United States; close to 42 million Americans have been married more than one time. This figure is almost double the amount reported in 1980. Estate planning is an important planning tool for everyone, but it can be especially useful in addressing specific concerns that exist in a blended […]