Category: Real Estate Attorneys

A concerned couple at a South Florida mailbox reads an insurance non-renewal notice stating their 12-year-old roof is an uninsurable liability. They are holding a 2026 survival guide and a summary of new Florida roof laws protection.

The South Florida Homeowner’s 2026 Roof Insurance Survival Guide

Posted on | by Yash Sareen

Opening your mailbox in Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach County often feels like an unpredictable gamble. One afternoon you are enjoying South Florida weather, and the next you are holding a notice from your insurance carrier stating that your 12-year-old roof is suddenly an uninsurable liability—demanding a $25,000 full replacement under threat of immediate non-renewal.

Before panicking or signing a contract with a door-to-door roofer, understand the ground rules. Florida property insurance regulations give homeowners explicit statutory protections that many carriers conveniently omit in their automated non-renewal letters.

Executive Legal Summary: Florida’s Roof Age Laws at a Glance

  • Roofs Under 15 Years Old: Under Florida Statute § 627.7011(5), property insurance carriers cannot deny coverage or refuse to renew a policy solely based on the age of your roof.
  • Roofs 15 Years or Older: Insurers can require a roof inspection, but they cannot deny coverage or force a replacement if an authorized inspector certifies that the roof has at least 5 years of remaining useful life.
  • Authorized Inspector Qualifications: Inspections must be completed by a licensed general contractor, building contractor, residential contractor, professional engineer, professional architect, or certified building code inspector.
  • Citizens Property Insurance Thresholds: Citizens requires roofs over 25 years old (for shingle) or 50 years old (for tile/metal) to submit a 4-Point or Roof Inspection Form proving 5+ years of useful life.
A distressed South Florida homeowner holds up an insurance non-renewal notice demanding $25,000 for a 12-year-old roof.

1. The Legal Reality: Florida’s 15-Year Roof Rule (Fla. Stat. § 627.7011)

Many homeowners mistakenly believe that reaching the 10- or 12-year mark on an asphalt shingle roof gives an insurer automatic legal authorization to cancel their policy. That is false.

                    FLORIDA ROOF AGE STATUTORY TIMELINE

 [0 to 14 Years Old]  ================================> CANNOT NON-RENEW SOLELY ON AGE

                                                       (Fla. Stat. § 627.7011(5))

 [15+ Years Old]      ================================> INSPECTION REQUIRED

                                                         │

                                                         ├─> 5+ Years Useful Life = COVERAGE MANDATED

                                                         └─> <5 Years Useful Life = Replacement/Repair

Protection for Roofs Under 15 Years

Florida Statute § 627.7011(5) explicitly states that an insurance company issuing or renewing a homeowners policy cannot refuse coverage solely because of roof age if the roof surface is less than 15 years old. If your carrier sends a non-renewal notice citing only a 12-year or 14-year roof age, they are violating state insurance guidelines.

The “5-Year Useful Life” Rule for Older Roofs

Once your roof hits or exceeds 15 years of age, the insurer gains the right to demand a professional roof inspection prior to policy renewal. However, the law still protects you: if the inspection proves your roof has at least 5 years of remaining useful life, the insurance company cannot reject your renewal application or force a complete replacement based on age alone.

2. Insurance Company Scare Tactics vs. Florida Statutory Law

Claim Made by Insurance CarrierActual Florida Legal & Statutory StandardImpact on Property Owner
“Your shingle roof is 12 years old, so you must replace it within 30 days to keep your policy.”Violates Fla. Stat. § 627.7011(5). Insurers cannot drop policies solely for roof age under 15 years.You do not have to replace a functional 12-year-old roof just because the carrier requests it.
“Your 16-year-old roof failed our satellite image review, so we are non-renewing.”Insurers must allow you to hire an authorized inspector to perform an in-person evaluation.Aerial satellite photos cannot override a physical inspection certifying 5+ years of useful life.
“Only our internal adjusters can determine if your roof is acceptable.”Inspections can be completed by any licensed Florida contractor, engineer, or home inspector.You have the right to hire your own independent inspector to document your roof’s actual condition.
“You must switch to an Actual Cash Value (ACV) endorsement or face immediate cancellation.”Policy changes must comply with OIR filings, and insurers must give advance written notice of endorsement alterations.ACV reduces payouts by factoring in heavy depreciation; understand what rights you give up before signing.

3. RCV vs. ACV: The Hidden Policy Trap

Understanding how your insurance carrier calculates roof damage payouts is essential when navigating renewals and storm damage claims.

  • Replacement Cost Value (RCV): The insurer covers the actual cost to repair or replace the damaged roof with similar materials at current market prices, without deducting money for age or wear and tear.
  • Actual Cash Value (ACV): The insurer deducts depreciation based on the age and condition of the roof before issuing a payment.

If a 15-year-old roof with a 20-year lifespan suffers severe storm damage under an ACV policy, the insurer may only pay 25% of the replacement cost, leaving the homeowner responsible for the remaining 75% out-of-pocket. Pay close attention to policy renewal documents—carriers frequently attempt to slip ACV roof endorsements onto older homes during annual renewals.

A proactive South Florida homeowner examines a roof with a licensed inspector who holds a 'ROOF CONDITION VERIFICATION FORM' certifying '5+ YEARS REMAINING USEFUL LIFE'

4. Roof Materials & Expected Insurable Lifespans

The material covering your home dramatically influences underwriting guidelines across private carriers and state-backed insurers like Citizens Property Insurance Corporation.

┌─────────────────────────┬─────────────────────────┬─────────────────────────┐

│ Roof Material Type      │ Typical Industry Life   │ Citizens Inspection Limit│

├─────────────────────────┼─────────────────────────┼─────────────────────────┤

│ Architectural Shingle   │ 15 to 25 Years          │ Inspection at 25 Years  │

│ Concrete / Clay Tile    │ 25 to 50 Years          │ Inspection at 50 Years  │

│ Standing Seam Metal     │ 30 to 50+ Years         │ Inspection at 50 Years  │

│ Flat / Low-Slope Membrane│ 10 to 15 Years          │ Inspection at 15 Years  │

└─────────────────────────┴─────────────────────────┴─────────────────────────┘

  • Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Private carriers scrutinize shingle roofs most heavily starting at year 15. However, high-grade architectural shingles often maintain structural integrity well beyond 15 years if properly maintained.
  • Tile & Metal Roofs: Concrete tiles, clay tiles, and standing-seam metal roofs regularly handle South Florida wind loads for decades. Citizens Property Insurance allows tile and metal roofs to reach up to 50 years before mandatory age-based useful life documentation is triggered.

5. Step-by-Step Defense Action Plan: Responding to a Non-Renewal Notice

If an insurance company delivers a notice demanding roof replacement or threatening non-renewal in Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach County, follow this structured response plan:

[Step 1: Audit Notice] ──> [Step 2: Hire Inspector] ──> [Step 3: Submit Form] ──> [Step 4: Legal Review]

  Check stated reasons       Independent 4-Point        Provide 5-year cert       Enforce statutory

  and roof age dates.        Roof Inspection.           to insurance carrier.     rights if denied.

  1. Audit the Non-Renewal Letter: Check the exact reason cited by the carrier. If the only reason listed is that your roof is between 1 and 14 years old, the notice violates Fla. Stat. § 627.7011(5).
  2. Order an Independent Roof Inspection: Contact a licensed Florida general contractor, building inspector, or engineer. Ask specifically for a Florida 4-Point Inspection or Roof Condition Verification Form.
  3. Secure the 5-Year Useful Life Certification: Ensure the inspector documents that the roof has at least 5 years of remaining useful life. This written verification serves as your primary protection under state law.
  4. Submit Formal Documentation via Certified Mail: Send the completed inspection report directly to your insurance agent and carrier. Request formal written confirmation that the non-renewal notice has been rescinded.
  5. Consult Legal Counsel if the Carrier Refuses: If an insurer ignores state statute and refuses to accept a valid 5-year useful life certification, legal intervention may be required to protect your property rights and coverage.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Can my insurance company drop me if my shingle roof is only 12 years old?

No. Under Florida Statute § 627.7011(5), insurance companies cannot refuse to issue or renew a homeowners insurance policy solely because of roof age if the roof is less than 15 years old.

Who qualifies as an “authorized inspector” in Florida?

Under state law, authorized inspectors include licensed general contractors, building contractors, residential contractors, professional engineers, professional architects, and certified building code inspectors.

What happens if my roof is over 15 years old but in great condition?

If an authorized inspector certifies that your 15+ year old roof has at least 5 years of remaining useful life, Florida law prevents the insurer from denying or non-renewing your coverage solely based on roof age.

Does Citizens Property Insurance follow the same roof rules?

Yes, Citizens Property Insurance must comply with Florida statutory requirements. Citizens requires documentation verifying at least 5 years of remaining useful life for shingle roofs older than 25 years and tile/metal roofs older than 50 years.

Protecting Your Property Rights Across South Florida

When insurance carriers issue arbitrary non-renewal demands, knowing the statutory rules keeps you in control. If your insurance company is threatening improper non-renewal, forcing unnecessary roof replacements, or mishandling a property damage claim, our team can help you enforce your statutory protections.

Reinfeld Cabrera

Property Law & Real Estate Legal Services

Serving Broward County, Miami-Dade County, and Palm Beach County

Contact Our Office:

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. Property insurance laws and underwriting rules change frequently. Consult a qualified Florida legal professional regarding your specific situation.

A detailed comparison chart of Formal Probate and Summary Administration on a legal desk with a gavel and hand, detailing process types, timelines (6-18+ months vs. 4-8 weeks), and relative costs for 2026 Florida probate cases.

Florida Summary Administration Requirements: How to Avoid Formal Probate in 2026

Posted on | by Yash Sareen

When a loved one passes away in Florida, families often assume they are facing a year-long legal battle filled with court dates, stacks of paperwork, and exorbitant administrative costs. However, under Chapter 735 of the Florida Probate Code, many families qualify for a fast-track judicial process known as Summary Administration.

Effective July 1, 2026, Florida doubled the statutory limit for small estate probate under Fla. Stat. § 735.201 from $75,000 to $150,000. This critical update allows significantly more families to distribute estate assets in a matter of weeks rather than months.

Direct Answer

What are the requirements for Summary Administration in Florida?

To qualify for Summary Administration in Florida under Fla. Stat. § 735.201, an estate must satisfy either of the following two criteria:

  1. The $150,000 Asset Cap: The total value of non-exempt Florida probate assets is $150,000 or less (for deaths on or after July 1, 2026).
  2. The 2-Year Rule: The decedent has been deceased for more than two years, regardless of total estate value.

Additionally, the decedent’s Last Will and Testament must not explicitly mandate Formal Estate Administration.

The Two Pathways to Qualifying for Summary Probate

Unlike Formal Administration—which requires the court to appoint a Personal Representative (Executor) and oversee a lengthy administration period—Summary Administration acts as a direct judicial order transferring assets straight to beneficiaries.

┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐

│           Summary Administration Qualification           │

└────────────────────────────┬────────────────────────────┘

                             │

              Does the Estate meet EITHER rule?

                             │

         ┌───────────────────┴───────────────────┐

         ▼                                       ▼

┌─────────────────────────┐             ┌─────────────────┐

│     The $150,000 Cap    │             │   2-Year Rule   │

│ Non-Exempt Assets ≤150k │     OR      │ Deceased >2 Yrs │

│  (Deaths Post-July 2026)│             │ (No Limit Cap)  │

└─────────────────────────┘             └─────────────────┘

Clients meeting with their Florida summary administration probate lawyer in Coral Springs to finalize court petitions and avoid formal probate.

1. The $150,000 Asset Limit (Non-Exempt Property)

For decedents passing on or after July 1, 2026, the estate’s total non-exempt probate assets must not exceed $150,000. (For deaths occurring prior to July 1, 2026, the statutory limit remains $75,000).

2. The Two-Year Statute of Repose Rule

If the decedent passed away more than two years ago, the estate automatically qualifies for Summary Administration, regardless of how millions of dollars the estate is worth. Under Fla. Stat. § 733.710, Florida enforces a strict two-year statute of repose that permanently bars unfiled creditor claims, removing the necessity for a formal personal representative to manage debts.

Why “On-Paper” Net Worth Misleads Most Heirs

One of the most frequent misconceptions beneficiaries encounter is assuming that if a relative owned a high-value home in South Florida, they are automatically forced into Formal Probate.

Florida law only evaluates probate assets subject to court distribution. The following major asset categories are entirely excluded from the $150,000 threshold calculation:

  • Florida Protected Homestead Real Estate: Under Article X, Section 4 of the Florida Constitution, a primary residence passing to a surviving spouse or lineal heirs is constitutionally protected from general creditors. Because homestead rights vest immediately upon death, the home’s value (whether $400,000 or $2,000,000) does not count toward the $150,000 limit when petitions are properly structured.
  • Statutory Exempt Personal Property: Under Fla. Stat. § 732.402, up to $20,000 in household furniture/furnishings and two personal motor vehicles used by the decedent are exempt from creditor claims and excluded from the asset tally.
  • Non-Probate Financial Transfers: Bank accounts with Payable-on-Death (POD) or Transfer-on-Death (TOD) designations, life insurance policies with named beneficiaries, jointly owned property with rights of survivorship, and assets held inside a Revocable Living Trust bypass probate entirely.
Calculating non-exempt probate assets in Florida: Real estate deed and vehicle documents marked exempt from probate to qualify for summary administration.

“Many families walk into our office believing they owe thousands in court fees because their parent owned a $700,000 house in Coral Springs. Once we isolate the constitutional homestead and exempt vehicles, the actual probate asset is just a $40,000 checking account—qualifying them for fast-track Summary Administration instantly.”

— Devin P. Tison, Esq., Lead Partner at Reinfeld Cabrera Tison

Real-World Case Studies: How Summary Administration Works in Practice

Case Study 1: Bypassing Formal Probate for a Broward County Home & Bank Account

  • Scenario: A widow in Fort Lauderdale passed away, leaving a home valued at $550,000 and a sole-name savings account containing $65,000. Her two adult children were named as equal beneficiaries in her Will.
  • The Legal Challenge: A traditional law firm informed the siblings they needed Formal Administration due to the $615,000 gross estate value, quoting an estimated 9-month process and thousands in hourly fees.
  • The RCT Solution: Our probate team filed a Petition for Determination of Homestead Property alongside a Petition for Summary Administration. Because the $550,000 home was protected homestead, its value dropped to $0 for qualification purposes. The only remaining asset was the $65,000 account—well under the statutory limit.
  • Outcome: The Broward County Probate Court issued an Order of Summary Administration in 5 weeks. The bank released the funds directly to the siblings, and the homestead order cleared title for them to sell the home without appointing a Personal Representative.

Case Study 2: Settling an Estate Decades Later for Out-of-State Heirs

  • Scenario: A father passed away in Miami-Dade County in 2018 owning an unlinked parcel of land. His heirs, living in New York, never probated the estate because they believed the process was too complex from out-of-state.
  • The Legal Challenge: The land grew in value to $220,000. The heirs wanted to sell the land but could not clear title without court authorization.
  • The RCT Solution: Because the decedent had been deceased for over two years, the estate qualified under the 2-Year Rule regardless of the $220,000 property value. We managed the entire filing remotely via Florida’s electronic court portal without requiring the heirs to travel to Florida.
  • Outcome: The court signed the distribution order within 4 weeks, enabling the title company to execute a seamless sale.

Detailed Comparison: Summary vs. Formal Administration

Key FeatureSummary Administration (Fla. Stat. § 735.201)Formal Administration (Fla. Stat. Ch. 733)
Statutory EligibilityNon-exempt assets $\le \$150,000$ OR death > 2 years agoEstates over $\$150,000$ or complex litigation cases
Average Timeline4 to 8 weeks6 to 12+ months
Personal RepresentativeNone appointed by the courtCourt appoints an Executor/PR
Letters of AdministrationNot issuedIssued (gives PR power to act for estate)
Primary Court OrderOrder of Summary AdministrationOrder of Discharge
Legal CostsSignificantly lower; often structured as a Flat FeeHigher court fees, inventory costs, and hourly rates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Florida have a Small Estate Affidavit to avoid probate?

No. Florida does not recognize a standalone “Small Estate Affidavit” for transferring real estate or bank accounts like some other states do. Florida’s equivalent for small estates is Summary Administration or, for extremely small asset values under funeral costs, Disposition Without Administration (Fla. Stat. § 735.301).

What happens to outstanding creditor debts in Summary Administration?

Because no Personal Representative is appointed to manage estate claims, beneficiaries who receive assets through Summary Administration remain personally liable for valid debts of the decedent up to the dollar value of what they inherited. To eliminate this risk, a probate attorney can publish an optional Notice to Creditors in a local South Florida newspaper, initiating a 30-day window that permanently bars unfiled claims.

Can an out-of-state beneficiary file for Summary Administration in Florida?

Yes. Florida probate courts utilize 100% digital filing systems. Out-of-state heirs in New York, New Jersey, or anywhere across the country can hire a local Florida probate lawyer to execute the entire proceeding remotely without ever stepping foot inside a courtroom.

How long does it take to get an Order of Summary Administration?

In South Florida courts (Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties), an uncontested Petition for Summary Administration typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from initial filing to final judge signature, depending on judicial caseloads.

Why Choose Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A. for South Florida Probate?

Navigating court petitions while grieving a family member can feel overwhelming. At Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A. (mypersonalattorneys.com), we simplify the Florida probate process with transparency and local courtroom experience:

  • Transparent Flat-Fee Pricing: We eliminate financial anxiety by offering predictable flat legal fees for uncontested Summary Administration—no hidden hourly bills.
  • Bilingual Legal Representation: Our attorneys and staff speak fluent English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for non-English speaking beneficiaries.
  • Full-Service Local Filings: We handle all court communication across Broward (17th Judicial Circuit), Miami-Dade (11th Judicial Circuit), and Palm Beach (15th Judicial Circuit) counties.

Take Action: Streamline Your Florida Probate Today

If you need to transfer real estate, recover frozen bank accounts, or resolve an estate in South Florida, contact Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A. today for a free case evaluation.

  • Direct Phone: (954) 334-1520 / (855) 529-7123
  • Coral Springs Office: 9625 W. Sample Rd, Coral Springs, FL 33065
  • Online Consultation: Request a review at mypersonalattorneys.com

What is a Ladybird Deed? Can I avoid Probate?

Posted on | by mP@

As an Probate Attorney in Coral Springs, my firm deals with all types of deeds.

Life Estate Deeds:

With a “regular” life estate deed, the owner of the real estate makes a gift of the property to beneficiaries, called remaindermen. The owner retains a life estate in the property as long as he is alive. He is responsible for all maintenance and taxes on the property. The life tenant cannot mortgage or sell the property during his/her lifetime without the permission and “joinder” of the remaindermen. The life tenant effectively gives the property away—and unilateral control of the property—during his/her lifetime, unless the remainderman join into the transaction.

Ladybird Deed

With an “enhanced” life estate or Lady Bird Deed, the owner of the part of real estate, the “life tenant and Grantor” retains complete control over the property during his/her lifetime. He/She has the right to mortgage or sell the real estate without the consent of his/her remaindermen named in the deed because they have not actually given the property to them yet. The property doesn’t transfer until the death of the life tenant. Once the life tenant passes away, the property is automatically transferred to the beneficiaries avoiding Probate.

If you would like to know more about Ladybird Deeds and how to avoid Probate, call our office today 954-334-1520. Our main office is located in Coral Springs, Florida. We offer free initial consultation, by phone or in person.

Voted Favorite Real Estate Attorney in Coral Springs by Readers Choice

Posted on | by mP@

Attorney-in-Coral-Springs

Reinfeld & Cabrera P.A. are proud and honored to have been voted favorite real estate attorney in Coral Springs by Readers Choice magazine for 2014. Readers Choice is a publication dedicated to bringing a focus on the people, the businesses, the schools and organizations that enrich the quality of your life in your community. It is for this reason that we feel privileged to have been recognized by Reader’s Choice and voted favorite real estate attorney in Coral Springs. As an attorney in Coral Springs we have made it our duty to ensure that our clients and community receive top priority and personal attention that they deserve.

While we have an already established practice in plantation, which we still consult from, our Coral Springs office only recently opened doors in June 2013. Although we are still considered a reasonably new attorney in Coral Springs we have extended our long-established practice of offering a free consultation and facilitation of house calls in necessary circumstances to our new location. We at Reinfeld & Cabrera P.A. have always endeavoured to provide the highest quality and most affordable legal representation to protect our client’s rights.

At Rienfeld & Cabrera P.A. there are few better than Michael A. Cabrera to turn to for advice concerning real estate law. From 1997 to 2001 Mr. Cabrera proudly served in the U.S. Army and Florida National Guard, after which he began his path toward becoming an attorney in Coral Springs. As a seasoned attorney in dealing with residential and commercial real estate law – including contract review, evictions, foreclosure defense, property damage, title disputes, short sales, and land lord tenant issues – Mr. Cabrera has extended his expertise to litigation involving real estate matters. Adding to this the fact that Mr. Cabrera is fluent in Spanish and English makes him a valuable asset to the community as an attorney in Coral Springs.

The next time you need legal advice regarding real estate issues do not hesitate to contact the law office of The Law Office of Reinfeld & Cabrera P.A. and make a time for your free consultation.

How Do I Evict a Family Member?

Posted on | by mP@

Coral Springs eviction attorneyEvicting a normal tenant can be a difficult procedure. However, if this unwanted tenant is a family member the process becomes even more difficult and emotionally taxing. To avoid an already trying situation from getting any worse, use an experienced Coral Springs eviction attorney to help you.

Eviction laws may differ from one state to the next, so if you want to evict a family member in the South Florida area, it is advisable to contact the experienced Coral Springs eviction attorneys at Reinfeld & Cabrera. Using an eviction attorney who practices in your area means that they will have specialised knowledge of the local law procedures and what is needed for an easy eviction process.

Here is a basic outline of what you and your eviction attorney will need to do and the process you will need to follow in order to evict a family member:

  • The first step is to issue a letter informing your family member that you would like them to vacate the premises within 15 days. You will also need to keep a copy of this letter. Consult an eviction attorney concerning the correct requirements that this letter will stipulate.
  • Next, if the family member still refuses to leave you can treat the eviction the same way as you would a normal tenant/landlord situation. You will have to file an eviction case in court. The eviction case is the landlord’s request or formal demand made to the County Court asking for the tenant to be evicted.
  • The court will then serve your family member with an eviction summons. They will have to appear in court to represent their case or else they will have to move out. If it goes to court, you will have to appear in court. This is where an eviction attorney can help you to get the outcome you want.
  • If you have an experienced Coral Springs eviction attorney on your side, your case should be pretty straightforward. You will then be issued a judgment of possession. Your family member will then have a few days to completely vacate the premises.

This should be the end of the process, however, in some cases the family member still refuses to leave. You can then discuss your options moving forward with your eviction attorney.

It is important to remember that if you have more than one family member over the age of 18 who you would like to evict, you will have to serve each one of them with a notice to evict and follow the same procedure.

Whatever the reason for you wanting to evict a family member, the process will be a lot easier and stress free if you consult with a knowledgeable Coral Springs eviction attorney.

The Importance of Having an Attorney at Closing

Posted on | by mP@

real-estate-attorney

If you are thinking about entering the property market you may have already thought about what the importance of having a real estate attorney at closing is. As an experienced real estate attorney in Florida, we at Reinfeld & Cabrera P.A. are aware of the temptation to forego the assistance of a real estate attorney when it comes to closing. That is why we feel it is our duty to provide you with as much information about the importance of having a real estate attorney at closing before you make a decision you may later regret.

Performing a real estate closing is extremely complicated and calls for a comprehensive knowledge of the law. That is why sensible sellers and purchasers will approach a real estate attorney for assistance. Real estate closings involve a host of complex stages from examination of the title, completion and explanation of legal documents, to resolution of potential title difficulties. Your real estate attorney will be able to work through each of these stages with as little hassle to you as possible. Your real estate attorney will examine the title records for things such as prior conveyances, unpaid mortgages, liens, judgments, easements, and any other impediments on title. Your real estate attorney will be able to make sure that the seller is legally allowed to convey a good title to the property. Additionally your real estate attorney will be able to ensure that there are no mistakes in the deeds in the chain of title. Your real estate attorney will also negotiate with the title insurance company for insurance coverage against any opposing claims of ownership, liens, and easements.

Once all of the above is in order your real estate attorney will then join all the important information into one set of closing documents. At the closing your real estate attorney will make sure that all the parties involved fully understand any issues implicated in the transaction. Thereafter your real estate attorney will distribute funds, record relevant documents as public records, and prepare title insurance policies for the purchaser and lender.

As your real estate attorney we at Reinfeld & Cabrera P.A. will review and negotiate the specific terms of contracts; assess financing options and explain the terms of loans; request title searches, surveys, mortgage payoff letters, condominium documents and all other items necessary for closing; prepare the deed, all other closing documents, and closing figures; evaluate all legal documents; attend the closing and ensure a clear title is conveyed; analyze charges making sure they are coherent with estimates; and identify anything that may have an effect on your property interest as well as provide counsel if any difficulties do arise.

Instead of have you struggle through the complicated closing procedures alone we at Reinfeld & Cabrera P.A. would be honored to handle the process on your behalf as your real estate attorney. Give us a call today to find out how we can help you.

Don’t Go Through An Eviction Without An Attorney

Posted on | by mP@

Coral-Springs-Eviction-Attorney

Are you in the Coral Springs area and are planning to evict a troublesome tenant or are a tenant who has been served an undue eviction notice? If the answer is yes, you will need to contact an experienced Coral Springs eviction attorney such as Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A. We say “don’t go through an eviction without an attorney” and here’s why…

A Coral Springs eviction attorney will be practiced and knowledgeable in the area of eviction and landlord law within your area. Because property law often differs from one state to the next you will want an eviction attorney who knows what they are doing when it comes to the specific details and complexities of eviction law in Florida and Coral Springs.

As eviction attorneys in Coral Springs, Reinfeld & Cabrera aim to avoid eviction litigation as much as possible by drafting lease agreements which are fair and protect their landlord and tenant clients. This will prevent you from running into an unfavourable eviction situation and the costly affair of litigation.

However, if the need for litigation does arise, you will definitely want the help of a practiced Coral Springs eviction attorney. Because an eviction lawsuit is usually shorter than regular civil cases, there is a higher toll for this expedited treatment. Landlords must comply with many complex protocols, for example they must notify the tenant of the lawsuit and they have to file many papers and forms. Another thing to think about when resorting to litigation is that the tenant’s home that’s at stake, so a judge may not easily rule in the favour of the landlord. It is not as easy for a landlord to win an eviction lawsuit as many people may assume, even if the case is pretty straightforward.

The eviction attorneys at Reinfeld & Cabrera are experienced in many aspects of landlord and eviction law and we will be able to assist you no matter what specific issue you are dealing with. As Coral Springs eviction attorneys we are skilled in dealing with the following scenarios:

Large commercial evictions
Assignment and sublet disputes
Security deposit claims
Disputes between roommates
Nuisance claims and condemnation
Destruction of the premises
Premises liability and indemnity
Enforcement and defense of rent escalation provision
Landlord remedies (including acceleration of rent)
Disputes involving the renewal and exercise of options to renew
Wrongful or constructive evictions
Breach of lease agreements
Summary of proceedings
Vacating of premise
Abandonment of personal property

As you can see, there are a myriad of issues which may arise or affect your case when you are dealing with the eviction process so you will want to have your Coral Springs eviction attorney by your side to guide you through it all. Don’t let yourself be a victim of unfavourable eviction proceedings, contact Reinfeld & Cabrera for Coral Springs eviction attorneys you can count on.

Facing Bankruptcy?

Posted on | by mP@

Bankruptcy-AttorneyAre you facing bankruptcy? Do you have a professional bankruptcy attorney who you can rely on? Do you understand what it means to face bankruptcy? As an experienced bankruptcy attorney, Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A. will answer all your bankruptcy questions as and when you need. Here are a few questions that you can ponder in order to give you a head start on bankruptcy and bankruptcy attorneys.

What is bankruptcy?
Very basically bankruptcy is a legal status of a person or entity that cannot repay its debts owed to creditors. Bankruptcy is often imposed by a court order initiated by the debtor. Here in Florida the Bankruptcy Code located at Title 11 of the United States Code governs us. There are six types of bankruptcy under the Bankruptcy Code. The most commonly used types of bankruptcy are Chapter 7: basic liquidation for individuals and businesses and Chapter 13: rehabilitation with a payment plan for individuals with a regular source of income. Chapter 7 (also known as straight bankruptcy) is the simplest and quickest type of bankruptcy in existence, while chapter 13 (also known as Wage Earner Bankruptcy) permits individuals with regular income to develop a means of paying off their debt through a repayment plan.

What is a bankruptcy attorney?
A bankruptcy attorney is in charge of helping you through the intricate bankruptcy process. An experienced bankruptcy attorney such as Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A. will ensure that you make no mistakes in preparing your petition. Experienced bankruptcy attorneys are better prepared to deal with any questions, concerns, or requests from the court than ordinary attorneys. A bankruptcy attorney will also appear with you at your Meeting of Creditors and help you to prepare and submit any additional documentation required until your case is discharged.

What should you do when facing bankruptcy?
As we have mentioned bankruptcy is a complicated and intricate process. With many forms to fill in and file, and potentially problematic procedures to navigate, facing bankruptcy on your own is not advisable. Arguably the wisest move you could make the moment you realise you may be facing bankruptcy is to contact an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Having a bankruptcy attorney such as Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A. assist you through bankruptcy will ensure that you are in the best of hands when it comes to the complex bankruptcy process. If you are facing bankruptcy please contact at your soonest opportunity to ensure that you have the support you need during the bankruptcy process.

It Makes Sense To Use A Real Estate Attorney When Buying A House

Posted on | by mP@

It makes sense to use a real estate attorney when buying a house

Congratulations on the finding the property of your dreams! But before you go any further, let the experienced attorneys at Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A. tell you why it makes sense to use a real estate attorney when buying a house.

Firstly, there is always a lot of official paperwork that surrounds the selling and purchasing of any property. In order for a sale to be legitimate, there needs to be a well-documented and legally binding contract. From sales contracts and financing agreements to title deeds you will have paperwork coming out of your ears! Often these contracts will be filled with legalese (fancy lawyer speak) and complicated processes and clauses. A real estate attorney will be there to relieve you of this headache and to explain the things you may not understand.

Real estate attorneys such as Reinfeld & Cabrera are experienced in dealing with these contracts and because they are familiar with the procedures they will be able to process everything much faster and more efficiently than an estate agent or you will be able to. They will also make sure that there are no possible glitches or issues for the buyer of the property and that all parts of the transaction follow state law. This includes your real estate attorney doing a title search to ensure that there are no liens or judgements against the perfect little place you plan to make your home. A title search ensures that the property owners have a legal right to sell the house. A real estate attorney will always have your best interests in mind.

Aside from all the paperwork flying around, there are other parts of your transaction that will need to be dealt with. Inspections and negotiations on the sales, repairs or maintenance will undoubtedly come about. You will want to have an experienced real estate attorney on your side to make sure that your property is received in top condition and that you are getting what you pay for and no less. During the negotiations and inspections it often happens that certain issues will occur. For instance you may find some structural damage to the property that makes it unsafe or the electrical system needs to be repaired. You won’t want to have to deal with these extra expenses once you have already purchased the property. A real estate attorney will guarantee that all issues are either compensated for in the price or that the seller is contractually obligated to repair any problems.

Hopefully with a knowledgeable real estate attorney on your side, you will never have to go into the process of litigation. However, if a dispute does arise and the issue is taken to court, you will be eternally thankful that you have a skilled real estate attorney to represent your interests. So don’t let your new home be tainted by any possible problems that may occur during the process, make sure that you start off on a stress-free and happy foot when buying your house – call a real estate attorney from Reinfeld & Cabrera today!

Finding The Right Attorney in Coral Springs

Posted on | by mP@

Attorney-in-Coral-SpringsThere are many ways to go about finding the right attorney in Coral Springs. Although it may seem an overwhelming task, finding the right attorney is easier than you think. We at Reinfeld & Cabrera P.A. feel that finding the right attorney goes beyond simply sourcing an attorney you need to identify an attorney who suits you personally. Below is a rundown of our advice to help you in finding the right attorney in Coral Springs.

Sourcing an attorney:
Recommendations are a good place to start. Begin by asking your friends, co-workers and employers if they know of, or, could recommend a good attorney in Coral Springs. Business owners and working professionals (like bankers, doctors, and social workers) may also be able to point you in the direction of finding the right attorney in Coral Springs. A common method of finding an attorney in Coral Springs is through Advertisements. Although not all attorneys choose to advertise, attorney advertisements are everywhere – from the Yellow Pages and newspapers to television, radio and the Internet. What is important to remember when finding an attorney in Coral Springs through advertising is to make sure that you keep the advert or make notes for your reference purposes. Another means of finding the right attorney in Coral Springs is through certified lawyer referral services. These are services that help you (as the potential client) find the right attorney in Coral Springs who is experienced in the appropriate area of the law. The Florida Bar (http://goo.gl/s170Q0) offers some information on lawyer referral services. Other means of finding an attorney in Coral Springs includes: Public interest groups; free legal aid agencies; dispute resolution programs and prepaid legal services plans.

Identifying an attorney who suits you:
Now that you are aware of the various methods of finding an attorney in Coral Springs, let’s chat about identifying the RIGHT attorney for your particular needs. It is important that you interview any prospective attorneys by speaking with each attorney personally. The most efficient way of doing this is to outline your needs in advance. Thus when you meet your potential attorney you can properly evaluate them, their behavior and their work ethic. This will help you make a well-rounded decision before beginning your client-attorney relationship. Pay particular attention to their personality (you must feel comfortable with your attorney); their communication and promptness (you want a lawyer who will work hard on your behalf and follow through promptly on all assignments); and their willingness to work with you (you will need an attorney who is willing to assist you in developing an understanding of the legal principles surrounding your problem)

By following our advice, finding the right attorney in Coral Springs, such as Reinfeld & Cabrera P.A., will result in a rewarding and successful relationship.