The Ledbetter Ledger - September 2024

 

A Message from...

Callie W. Cowan, Esq.

Expert Insights:

The Risks of Naming Minor Children as Death Beneficiaries in Estate Planning

When structuring your Estate Plan, one of the most crucial decisions is determining who will inherit your assets. If you're a grandparent looking to leave a portion of your estate to a minor grandchild, it's essential to understand the potential pitfalls of naming them as a direct beneficiary. As an Estate Planning Attorney, I have witnessed the complications that can arise from this well-meaning decision, particularly regarding legal and guardianship matters.


Legal and Guardianship Complexities

One major issue is that minors cannot legally inherit property or financial assets outright. If a minor is named as a beneficiary, the assets typically go into a court-supervised guardianship until the child reaches the age of majority, which could be 18 or 21, depending on state laws. This process often incurs court oversight, legal fees, and administrative costs, reducing the inheritance's value. Additionally, a court-appointed guardian may not align with your preferences, potentially leading to the assets being managed contrary to your wishes.



Alternative Estate Planning Strategies

To avoid these complications, alternative Estate Planning strategies like Trusts can offer better protection. A Trust allows you to appoint a trusted individual to manage the assets on behalf of the minor, ensuring they are used responsibly for education, health care, or other needs. This approach provides flexibility and control, allowing the inheritance to be preserved until the child is mature enough to handle it. By considering these options, you can ensure your legacy is protected and your wishes are honored.

Click Here for More about Estate Planning

-WELCOME TO THE TEAM-

Ashley Schrock

Legal Assistant

Ashley is a Sarasota Native who graduated from USF as a Finance Major. She has worked in various financial and accounting roles throughout her working career and has brought 10 years of Trust & Estate Administration experience to Ledbetter Law Group. She lives in Venice with her husband and two middle school aged kids. They are involved in soccer and cheerleading, so they spend their weekends traveling around SWFL supporting them, but when they get a chance, like most natives, they really love spending time on the water, boating, fishing and doing water sports. 

-HAPPY WORKAVERSARY-

Sandy Winkler

Real Estate Paralegal

Heather Zbytniewski

Probate Paralegal

Natalie Croston

Estate Planning Team Lead

Leisha Fontecchio

Probate Paralegal


-SAVE THE DATE-

RSVP Here
Link For Photos

Protecting Your Assets Summer Series: Session 2


Join us on September 25th from 4:00 - 5:15 PM at State College of Florida - Venice Campus for an informative session led by Steven W. Ledbetter, Esq. and David Joyner of Joyner Family Insurance.


Topics will include:

  • Blended Families
  • Homestead Trusts
  • Key Elements of Home Insurance
  • ...and much more!


Don't miss out on these essential insights to safeguard your assets!


Click the button below to register:

Protecting Your Assets Summer Series: Session 3


Join us for an insightful session with Steven W. Ledbetter, Esq. and David Joyner of Joyner Family Insurance on October 30th at the State College of Florida - Venice Campus from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM.


Topics will include:

  • How to Avoid Probate & Its Pitfalls
  • Auto Insurance
  • Umbrella Insurance
  • And More!


Don’t miss this opportunity to protect your assets and gain valuable knowledge!


Click the button below to register:

Register Here
Register Here

-OUT IN THE COMMUNITY-

BINGO!!!


Ledbetter Law Group had a fantastic time at the Venice Area Board of Realtors Bingo event.

We would like to thank the team at the Venice Area Board of Realtors for putting together a superb event! We were proud to join other sponsors in supporting this wonderful community gathering! Looking forward to more great times together!

Rotary Futures College Resource Center's 'Dancing Under the Stars' Fundraiser


Ledbetter Law Group was proud to be one

of the sponsors of the Rotary Futures College Resource Center's ‘Dancing Under the

Stars’ Fundraiser!


It was a fantastic evening supporting post-secondary planning assistance for local students. Steven W. Ledbetter, Esq., and his wife, Lissa, were joined at our table by Natalie Croston (Estate Planning Team Lead) and her husband, Jimmy, as well as Kate Hyland Mercer (Financial Advisor).


We are grateful to be part of such an impactful event!

Sarasota County Bar Association's South County Division End

of Year Social


We are delighted to have sponsored the Sarasota County Bar Association's South County Division End of Year Social event held at Evie's at Spanish Point! It was a wonderful occasion to recognize the dedication and accomplishments of our legal community over the past year. Our team, including Attorneys Callie W. Cowan and Jada W. Terreros, along with EP Team Lead Natalie Croston, had a fantastic time.

Sarasota County Division Kickoff Dinner for the Sarasota County

Bar Association


The South County Division Kickoff Dinner for the Sarasota County Bar Association was held at the beautiful Plantation Golf & Country Club, where our own Steven W. Ledbetter, Esq., Callie W. Cowan, Esq. and Natalie Croston, our Estate Planning Team Lead, enjoyed the evening networking and connecting with fellow professionals.

Friendly Competition


Fore! Attorney Steven W. Ledbetter had a tee-rific time golfing with Damian Mallard and Alan Perez from Mallard Perez, along with Josh Roberts, Esq. from Roberts Law, PLLC for the Mallard Perez Stableford Championship at The Esplanade in Lakewood Ranch! It was a fantastic day of golf, filled with camaraderie and friendly competition.

-REAL ESTATE-

Time to Pay Your Property Taxes!


Your annual property tax bill will be arriving in your mailboxes soon, and it’s helpful to understand what you’re being charged for. Many homeowners are unfamiliar with the difference between Ad Valorem Taxes and Non-Ad Valorem Assessments, but we are here to clarify!


Ad Valorem Taxes

Ad Valorem Taxes are based on the value of your property. Every year, local taxing authorities hold public hearings to decide on their budgets. These budgets help set the tax rate, called the "millage rate." This rate is applied to your property’s taxable value to calculate how much you owe. In simple terms, one mill equals $1 for every $1,000 of property value. Here’s how the formula works: Taxable value ÷ 1,000 × millage rate = Property Tax Owed.



These taxes help fund services like schools, mosquito control, hospitals, emergency services, and more. Ad Valorem taxes are calculated for the calendar year (January 1 to December 31) and are paid for the previous year (in arrears), meaning they cover the prior year.


Non-Ad Valorem Assessments

Non-Ad Valorem Assessments are not taxes, but are fees for specific services like fire protection, ambulance services, garbage collection, sewer, and stormwater management. These fees are only charged to the properties that benefit from these services, so not everyone will have the same assessments. These are typically billed on a fiscal year basis (October 1 to September 30), meaning they are paid in advance but are collected on your tax bill each year.


Your Tax Bill

Your tax bill will provide a detailed breakdown of both the Ad Valorem Taxes and Non-Ad Valorem Assessments. To take advantage of the 4% discount, make sure to pay by November 30th. If you miss that date, don’t worry! You have until March 31st to pay the full amount. Taxes paid after March 31st are subject to penalties so do not wait!


If you have questions on your tax bill, please feel free to contact us.

We are always happy to help!

Thank you for choosing Ledbetter Law Group for your Real Estate Closings. Congratulations to both the Buyers and Sellers, as well as their trusted Real Estate Agents!

We know it can feel like a lot of moving pieces; therefore, to provide the best customer service and help you feel comfortable with “What’s Next?”, Ledbetter Law Group has created written and video guides to explain and illustrate The 5 Steps For Your Great Closing™.

Click Here to Learn More!

-LEDBETTER WORKSHOPS-

PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS

Session 1 - Part 1

"Wills vs. Trusts, Advanced Directives, & the Importance of Life Insurance"

Presented by: Steven W. Ledbetter, Esq. - Ledbetter Law Group

& David Joyner - Joyner Family Insurance

PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS

Session 1 - Part 2

"Wills vs. Trusts, Advanced Directives, & the Importance of Life Insurance"

Presented by: Steven W. Ledbetter, Esq. - Ledbetter Law Group & David Joyner - Joyner Family Insurance

LUNCH & LEARN

"Mastering Property Value: A Realtor's Guide with Expert Appraisers"

Presented by: Dennis J. Black, MRICS - ASA of Correct Assessment Group, Inc.

& David C. Lemonde, SRA - Lemonde Valuation Services of SWFL, Inc.

LUNCH & LEARN

"Real Estate Guide to Probate & Trust Property"

Presented by: Steven W. Ledbetter, Esq. - Ledbetter Law Group

Did you know that Ledbetter Law Group offers a range of captivating workshops centered on Estate Planning, Probate & Real Estate, led by our seasoned Attorneys? If you're interested in inviting one of our Attorneys to speak at your community or private event, please contact our Director of Marketing at Marketing@LedbetterLawFL.com.

We're passionate about sharing knowledge, and we'll handle all the arrangements for a delightful learning experience over lunch or breakfast!

-BLOG ALERT-

Have you had a chance to explore the blogs on our website? Our Attorneys have dedicated extra time to provide you with valuable content, alongside their legal responsibilities. Take a moment to dive in and discover what they have to offer – it's definitely worth your time!

Click Here to Read Blogs

-Ledbetter's Literary Picks: Articles Worth Exploring-

Venice, FL: A Growing Snowbird Haven and Year-Round Destination


Venice, Florida, has become an increasingly popular destination for snowbirds, seasonal residents who flock south during the colder months. Its mild winter climate, affordable housing, and vibrant community make it a natural choice for retirees and those seeking a sunny escape. Known for its stunning Gulf Coast beaches and charming downtown, Venice is a quintessential winter retreat for those escaping the chill of northern states.


In recent years, however, Venice’s appeal has grown beyond its seasonal visitors. More snowbirds are opting to stay year-round, attracted by the city's laid-back lifestyle and community atmosphere. This shift has contributed to a population boom, with many retirees making Venice their permanent home. Additionally, the rise of remote work has enabled younger professionals and families to relocate, further diversifying the city's population.


Venice’s population growth has been supported by a boom in new housing developments, ranging from single-family homes to upscale condos. These developments have expanded the city's capacity to welcome both seasonal and permanent residents. Improved infrastructure, including expanded healthcare facilities and roadways, has made Venice even more attractive to those seeking a high quality of life.


Economically, the influx of both seasonal visitors and permanent residents has had a positive impact. Local businesses thrive on the seasonal spike in tourism, while Real Estate continues to see strong demand. Snowbirds contribute significantly to the local economy, supporting restaurants, shops, and service industries. Additionally, many choose to invest in property, which fuels Venice’s growing real estate market.


Culturally, Venice offers a wealth of activities for both its seasonal and permanent residents. From arts and crafts fairs to outdoor concerts and sporting events, there’s always something happening. The Venice Theatre and other cultural institutions have adapted to the city’s evolving population, providing a variety of programming year-round. The city’s blend of recreational activities, social events, and outdoor attractions ensures a vibrant community life.


As Venice continues to grow, it faces challenges like traffic congestion and environmental concerns. The city’s planners are focused on managing growth sustainably, balancing the needs of a rising population with the desire to preserve Venice’s natural beauty and small-town charm. Despite these challenges, Venice remains a premier destination for both snowbirds and full-time residents, offering a unique blend of relaxation, community, and coastal living on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

-DID YOU KNOW-

Did you know that we offer online scheduling?


We offer a complimentary 15 minute telephone call with Steven W. Ledbetter, Esq., Callie W. Cowan, Esq., Carolyn S. Smith, Esq. or Jada W. Terreros, Esq. to learn how we can best assist you.

Look for the "blue button" link at the bottom right of our webpage, Click button below or call our office at 941.256.3965

Discover unparalleled "Peace of Mind" and satisfaction with Ledbetter Law Group. Our dedicated team is here to guide you and your loved ones through creating a plan that aligns with your goals.


Explore the five ways we can assist you and reach out to our office at 941.256.3965 to schedule a consultation.

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