January 2025 Edition Legal News & Updates January 2025 Edition Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A., is dedicated to providing regular updates to our valued clients and the community regarding legal matters that may influence their businesses and families. We are pleased to present articles and news shared for your reference and awareness. Divorce, Marital & Family Law What Happens to Real Estate in a Florida Divorce? Dividing property during a divorce is often one of the most challenging as- pects for couples, particularly with regard to real estate. In Florida, equita- ble distribution laws and other legal considerations come into play. Family Law Attorney Iman Zekri, with the help of Real Estate Attorney Alessandro Secino, share guidance to help couples understand the process and pote- ntial issues that may arise. Real Estate You Shall Not Pass – Understanding Legal Access You’ve closed on your dream home, but a locked gate and a neighbor demand- ing payment for access weren’t part of the plan. Legal access issues can derail property ownership. Real Estate Attorney Alessandro Secino explains what le- gal access means, how to determine if a property has it, and what options are available if it doesn’t. Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning Strategic Estate Planning in Florida Amid 2025 Tax Law Overhauls Major tax changes are coming that could significantly impact your estate plan. With the federal estate tax exemption set to drop in 2026 and new Florida property tax adjustments taking effect, now is the time to review your strategy. Learn how to protect your assets, maximize tax-saving op- portunities, and ensure a smooth wealth transfer from Estate Planning Attorney Braxton Bowen, Jr. In the News Michael Corso Celebrates 40 Years as a NBTA Board-Certified Civil Trial Specialist Michael Corso has been recertified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) as a Board Certified Specialist in Civil Trial. This recognition marks an extraordinary 40 years of his dedication to the highest standards of civil trial advocacy. Naples Guardianship, Trusts & Estates Attorney Amanda Dorio Elevated to Stockholder Since joining the firm in 2022, Amanda Dorio has been instrumental in en- hancing the firm’s guardianship and estate planning practice. Her promo- tion underscores her dedication to client advocacy, legal excellence, and community involvement. Fort Myers Business Litigation Attorney Gary Rhodes Elevated to Stockholder A skilled business litigation attorney, Gary Rhodes has been vital to the firm’s litigation team, representing clients in complex commercial disputes and busi- ness matters. Iman Zekri Joins Blessings in a Backpack Board of Directors “As a product of the Lee County public school system, I have a deep personal connection to Southwest Florida and its families. It’s an honor to contribute to Blessings in a Backpack’s mission to ensure local children have the resources they need to thrive,” shares Fort Myers Divorce, Marital and Family Law Attorney Iman Zekri. Christina Martinez Joins Henderson Franklin’s Real Estate Department We are pleased to welcome attorney Christina Martinez to our Real Estate Department. With over a decade of experience in real estate law, she has handled a wide range of real estate transactions, including commercial deals involving hotels, offices, shopping centers, and apartment buildings. Gary Rhodes and Brendan Shearman Join Lee County Bar Association Foundation Board of Directors The Lee County Bar Association Foundation’s mission is to foster access to justice, support charitable initiatives, and promote legal education within the community. As board members, Gary Rhodes and Brendan Shearman will work to advance these goals and ensure the Foundation continues to posi- tively impact Lee County. Iman Zekri Elected 2025 President of the Association of Family Law Professionals As President, Iman Zekri will lead the Association’s efforts to foster collaboration and provide education for professionals dedicated to helping families in transition. She pre- viously served as Vice President and Secretary, demonstrating her dedication to the or- ganization’s mission and her leadership ability. Fort Myers | Bonita Springs | Naples Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A. 1715 Monroe Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 www.henlaw.com Unsubscribe |











