The Gould Cooksey Fennell Blog
What Estate Planners Need To Know About 501(c)(4)s
By Jeffrey J. Spina-Jennings, Esq., Gould Cooksey Fennell, PLLC, Vero Beach, Florida As a result of the recent restructuring of Patagonia utilizing a social welfare organization (“501(c)(4)”) there is a revitalization of discussions regarding whether a 501(c)(4) may be an appropriate structure to carry out a client’s charitable objectives. News
GCF’s Medical Malpractice Team Earns $31.9 Million Jury Verdict for Daughter of Wrongful Death Victim
On Friday March 8, 2024, GCF attorneys David Carter and Dane Ullian earned a verdict of $31.9 million for the family of Saverio Sasso, deceased, in a medical malpractice wrongful death trial against Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston Hospital. The case arose out of a negligent, non-emergency intubation that caused Mr.
How to Choose a Real Estate Attorney
Selection of an attorney to represent you and handle your real estate transactions need not be a difficult or time consuming process. Here’s how to navigate the process and select the attorney who will champion your interests. Ask someone you trust: Most law firms have an internet presence via websites
What is Property Portability in Florida?
Florida homestead portability is a valuable benefit for homeowners in the state of Florida. It allows individuals to transfer some or all of their Save Our Homes (SOH) benefit from one property to another when they move within the state. The primary benefit of homestead portability is to help homeowners
Electronic Signatures for IRS Forms Now Allowed Permanently
On October 17, 2023, the IRS updated the “e-Signature Program” of the Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) to make permanent the ability for taxpayers (and representatives) to electronically sign IRS related forms and returns. The IRS originally adopted these electronic signature procedures as a temporary response to the COVID pandemic. Section
2024 Estate, Gift and GST Tax Exemptions and Annual Exclusion
As announced by the IRS, the key 2024 federal transfer tax exemption amounts per taxpayer are as follows: Estate, Gift and GST Tax Exemption Generally, the Estate and Gift Tax Exemption is used to determine the aggregate value of the taxable gratuitous transfers that a person can make without incurring a transfer tax (e.g., gifts and
Homestead Exemption Rules in Florida
The homestead exemption is a valuable benefit for homeowners in Florida. One of the primary benefits of the Florida homestead exemption is the significant reduction in property taxes. The Florida homestead exemption offers a substantial reduction in the taxable value of a homeowner’s primary residence. This reduction can result in
The Dangers of Distracted Driving: Tips for Staying Focused on the Road
Each year, it is estimated that in the United States over 3,000 people die, and over 400,000 people are injured, due to distracted driving. Distracted driving is a critical safety concern on Florida’s roads, posing severe risks to both drivers and pedestrians. As the state continues to deal with the
Gould Cooksey Fennell Celebrates a Decade on U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List
We are so excited to celebrate this significant milestone – GCF’s 10th consecutive year of being recognized on the prestigious U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms list. This accolade, awarded in the areas of Trusts and Estates and Personal Injury Tier 1 in the Orlando Area, is a testament to the firm’s
Reporting Deadlines Under The Corporate Transparency Act
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) aims to increase financial transparency and prevent illicit activities by requiring certain corporations, limited liability companies, and other entities to report information about their beneficial owners. Beneficial owners are individuals who hold at least a 25% ownership stake in a company or exercise substantial control
Should I Use a Real Estate Attorney?
Yes. Engaging the assistance of a skilled real estate attorney is a vital component of a successful real estate transaction. If you’re buying or selling real estate in Florida and are considering using an attorney, here are some important considerations. Real Estate Attorneys Encourage Smooth Transactions When you select a
The Dangers of Teen Drivers and Who Bears Responsibility for their Negligence
Turning 16 is an exciting time in the life of a teenager. You qualify to get your driver’s license and begin to experience that first taste of freedom. But driving is a privilege that carries with it a tremendous amount of responsibility, not just for the teen driver, but for the
Steps In a Florida Personal Injury Case
Victims of car crashes, medical malpractice, and other negligence can often feel overwhelmed by the personal injury claim process. It may be the first time they’ve ever dealt with insurance company adjusters and attorneys. During what can be one of the most vulnerable times in their lives, clients are learning about
Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act: Time for an Update?
By Anthony P. Guettler, Esq., Gould Cooksey Fennell, Vero Beach, Florida and Patrick J. Lannon, Esq., Shutts & Bowen, LLP, Miami, Florida Immigration into Florida from other states and countries continues apace, and Florida property continues to be an attractive investment opportunity for outsiders. As attorneys rush to help the
Trust Ownership Under the Corporate Transparency Act
For estate planning purposes it is common for a trust to be an owner of a family company or other business. Under the new Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), companies may be required to disclose confidential private information about the individuals with rights or authority over the trust assets. In other words,
7 GCF Attorneys Selected to Best Lawyers 2024
It is our pleasure to announce that seven members of our team have been selected for inclusion in the 2024 edition of Best Lawyers® in America. Best Lawyers® remains one of the most credible sources of legal expertise in the United States, and each year they publish a list of attorneys that
10 GCF Attorneys Selected to Super Lawyers 2023
For the 17th consecutive year, Gould Cooksey Fennell is proud to announce that 10 attorneys have been named as Florida Super Lawyers and Rising Stars. The “Super Lawyer” distinction is given to only 5 percent or less of lawyers in each state, and the “Rising Star” to just 2.5 percent.
Planning for the Corporate Transparency Act
What is the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”)? A new law designed to combat financial crimes such as money laundering and terrorism financing. Under CTA, companies are required to provide information regarding their beneficial owners to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. When will the CTA apply? The reporting requirements under the
