Recent Blog Posts
What Florida Law Says About Accountings by Trustees and Personal Representatives
In Florida, when a Trustee or Personal Representative is handling an Estate, they have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. A key aspect of this duty is the obligation to provide regular and accurate accountings. Failure to do so can lead to serious legal consequences and leave beneficiaries… Read More »
What to Do When a Personal Representative Fails
Personal Representatives play a critical role in managing and distributing the assets of a deceased individual’s estate. Under state law, these individuals, who some call executors, are entrusted with significant responsibilities, including ensuring that the deceased’s wishes are carried out and that beneficiaries receive their rightful inheritances. It is an unfortunate reality that not… Read More »
Estate Fraud and Embezzlement
Devastating effects can be felt when estate fraud or embezzlement occurs, particularly when fiduciaries or third parties abuse their position of trust. These issues often arise in situations involving guardianships, where vulnerable individuals rely on appointed fiduciaries to manage their assets. Unfortunately, not all fiduciaries act in good faith. If you are in a… Read More »
8 Ways to Protect Beneficiaries from Financial Abuse
Protecting beneficiaries from financial abuse is an important aspect of effective estate planning and administration. Sadly, fiduciaries, family members, and third parties may take advantage of an estate, causing financial harm to the very people the estate was meant to support. By taking proactive measures during estate planning and being vigilant after a loved… Read More »
Why Hire an Attorney After a Breach of Fiduciary Duty
Fiduciaries, such as personal representatives, trustees, or guardians, are entrusted with the responsibility of managing another’s financial affairs, estate or trust with utmost honesty, loyalty, and care. A breach of fiduciary duty occurs when a fiduciary fails to meet these obligations, causing harm to the beneficiaries. If you suspect such misconduct, having a conversation… Read More »
What Happens When a Florida Estate Includes Out-of-State or International Assets?
Handling a Florida estate is often complex, but when the estate includes out-of-state or international assets, the challenges multiply. Assets outside of Florida introduce legal, logistical, and tax-related hurdles that require specialized knowledge. If you’re dealing with such an estate, consulting an experienced Pompano Beach estate litigation lawyer is key to ensure compliance with… Read More »
When Estate Feuds Escalate
Inheriting from a loved one’s estate can be a complex and emotional process, especially when disputes arise among family members. While most families aim to honor the deceased’s wishes, disagreements over wills and inheritances can lead to costly and bitter legal battles. Understanding how a skilled Pompano Beach estate litigation lawyer can protect your… Read More »
Spotting Conflicts of Interest in Estate Administration
Estate administration requires Personal Representatives and trustees to act in the best interests of all beneficiaries while honoring the wishes of the deceased. While these duties are well known, conflicts of interest can arise when the individuals responsible for managing an estate or trust prioritize personal gain or show favoritism. Conflicts can lead to… Read More »
Heir Disputes and Intestate Succession in Florida
Inheritance battles can become emotionally charged and legally complex, especially when a loved one passes away without a will. In such cases, Florida’s intestacy laws dictate how assets are distributed. This can lead to disagreements among potential heirs, but a Pompano Beach estate litigation lawyer can assist in resolving disputes. Intestate Succession and Common… Read More »
When Is a Will Valid in Florida?
Creating a valid will is one of the most important steps to ensuring that your wishes are followed after your passing, but not all wills are legally enforceable. In Florida, strict legal standards determine whether a will is valid. For example, a key component is testamentary capacity, or the mental ability of the person… Read More »
Mark R. Manceri, P.A. is a boutique law firm that specializes in Estate, Trust and Guardianship litigation. These matters include Will and Trust contests involving lack of capacity, undue influence, forgery, improper execution and tortious interference...