
Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts – Which Is Right for You?
The word “trust” sounds simple enough until you start planning your own estate, and then suddenly there are two kinds, a dozen acronyms, and a

The word “trust” sounds simple enough until you start planning your own estate, and then suddenly there are two kinds, a dozen acronyms, and a

You finally sit down with the folder your parent left behind, and there it is. A thick document with the word “Trust” on the cover

You have just learned that a loved one passed away and left behind a trust. Maybe you expected to be a beneficiary, or maybe what

Most families never expect to find themselves in a guardianship proceeding. One day, your parents are managing their own affairs just fine. Next, you are watching someone you love make decisions that are putting them in real danger, and you have no legal authority to step in. Or maybe your child is about to turn 18, and you suddenly realize
When an elder is facing immediate physical danger, severe self-neglect, or active financial exploitation, waiting months for a standard court proceeding isn't an option. Florida law allows for an Emergency Temporary Guardianship (ETG) to appoint a temporary surrogate within days. The Law Firm of Cheryl A. Ward, PL assists families during these urgent crisis situations.
📍 Key Info: An ETG remains in effect for a limited period while the court evaluates long-term safety measures.
Law Firm of Cheryl A. Ward, PL
Call us immediately if an elderly family member requires urgent legal protection.
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When a vendor fails to deliver or a business partner breaches an agreement, unresolved contract disputes can harm your livelihood. Effective civil litigation requires a clear legal strategy focused on protecting your financial interests and securing fair compensation. The Law Firm of Cheryl A. Ward, PL advocates for individuals and local businesses involved in contract conflicts.
📍 Litigation Tip: Preserve all original agreements, written amendments, and email exchanges to build a strong evidentiary record.
Law Firm of Cheryl A. Ward, PL
Schedule a consultation to discuss your business or contract dispute.
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Top Ten Mistakes I See as an Elder Law Attorney
Last week, I had the pleasure of speaking at Indian River Colony Club(IRCC) and presenting on a topic that has become very important to me throughout my years of practice: “Top Ten Mistakes I See as an Elder Law Attorney.”
We had a fantastic turnout, and I truly enjoyed the opportunity to share some of the common mistakes I see in my practice and discuss ways individuals and families can be more proactive when it comes to estate planning, long-term care planning, and preparing for the future.
I want to extend a special thank you to Timothy Wood and the many others who helped organize and coordinate the event. So much work happens behind the scenes to make presentations like this possible, and I am incredibly appreciative of everyone who helped make the event such a success.
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended, asked thoughtful questions, and took the time to spend part of their day with me. One of my favorite parts of what I do is having the opportunity to get out into our community, meet with people face-to-face, and provide information that can help families feel more prepared for whatever the future may bring.
Thank you, IRCC, for such a warm welcome and a wonderful event! I look forward to visiting again soon.
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🎓 Celebrating Our First Intern, Ramsey Corrado!
It’s a bittersweet moment for our firm as we wish our very first intern, Ramsey Corrado, the very best as she heads off to Florida State University to begin the next chapter of her education!
Over the years, Ramsey has become a familiar and valued part of our firm, assisting us in more ways than we can count. From helping produce our newsletters and preparing Attorney Ward for local presentations to lending a hand wherever she was needed, Ramsey has had the opportunity to see firsthand just how much work happens both inside and outside the office.
A graduate of Satellite High School and a member of its debate team along with being the founding member of Satellite High School's newspaper, Ramsey is now heading to FSU to pursue her undergraduate degree in Political Science. From there, she plans to attend law school and pursue her dream of becoming an attorney.
We are incredibly proud to have played even a small part in Ramsey’s journey and even more excited to see where her hard work, determination, and ambition take her next.
Ramsey, we’ll be cheering you on from back home as you trade Satellite scarlet for garnet and gold! We know this is only the beginning, and we can’t wait to watch you accomplish everything you’ve set out to do.
Congratulations, Ramsey, and Go Noles! 🍢
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In Florida, if a minor child under 18 inherits property or receives a legal settlement over a certain financial threshold, a parent cannot simply manage the funds without court oversight. A Guardianship of the Property is established to safeguard the child's financial interests. The Law Firm of Cheryl A. Ward, PL guides parents through the formal court appointment process.
📍 Helpful Hint: Proper court accounting ensures the money remains secure until the child reaches adulthood.
Law Firm of Cheryl A. Ward, PL
Talk to our team to manage financial guardianship requirements for a minor.
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When a life insurance policy or annuity names a beneficiary under suspicious circumstances, family disputes can arise quickly. If a designation form was altered near the end of someone's life due to pressure or reduced mental capacity, the court can review its validity. The Law Firm of Cheryl A. Ward, PL provides dedicated representation in insurance and beneficiary disputes.
📍 Note: Acting promptly is crucial, as insurance companies often payout funds shortly after receiving a claim.
Law Firm of Cheryl A. Ward, PL
Request a case evaluation if you are facing a beneficiary dispute.
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