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Henderson Franklin Legal News and Updates
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 business-
es and families. We are pleased to present articles and news shared in September 2024 for
your reference and awareness.  

Estate Planning

Why Snowbirds Should Make Florida Their Permanent Residence

As the cooler months approach, many snowbirds begin their migration back to Florida.
While the sunshine and mild winters are appealing, there are many financial and legal
reasons to consider making Florida a permanent home. From no state income or estate
tax to strong asset protection laws, becoming a Florida resident can offer significant
benefits. Click here to learn more from estate planning attorney Braxton Bowen.     

Condominium and
Homeowners’ Associations

Understanding Structural Integrity Reserve Study & Milestone Inspection Reports, Deadlines and Board Responsibilities

In response to the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers South, Florida has im-
plemented new mandatory inspections for condominiums to safeguard structural
integrity. These requirements include the Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS)
and Milestone Inspection Report (MIR), which help identify potential structural
issues and ensure proper funding for repairs.

Condominium boards have specific responsibilities when receiving these reports,
including notifying owners and plan-ning for future inspections. Click here to learn
more about these critical inspections, upcoming deadlines, and what your board
needs to do to stay compliant from Real Estate Department Chair Colby Keefe.  

In the News

Matthew Belcastro Recertified as Construction Law Expert by The Florida Bar

Stockholder and Tort & Insurance Litigation Department Chair Matthew Belcastro has
been recertified by The Florida Bar as an expert in Construction Law. Board certification
highlights his extensive knowledge and commitment to staying at the forefront of Florida’s
construction laws. Click here to learn more about Matthew’s recertification and his contin-
ued impact on the construction industry and the Southwest Florida community.

Henderson Franklin Welcomes Margaret Karakashian to Business & Tax Department

We are pleased to announce the addition of Margaret Karakashian to the firm’s Business
& Tax Planning Department. She will be practicing in both the Fort Myers and Naples offices,
where she will assist business owners in navigating the complexities of entity formation, merg-
ers and acquisitions, and more. Her unique combination of tax and legal experience ensures
clients receive comprehensive strategies that address both compliance and financial efficiency.
Click here to learn more about Margaret and the value she brings to our team.

Kayla Richmond Honored as One of Gulfshore Business Magazine’s 40 Under 40  

Stockholder Kayla Richmond, a Florida Bar Board Certified Divorce, Marital, and Family
Law specialist, has been named one of Gulfshore Business Magazine’s 40 Under 40 honor-
ees. This recognition celebrates her exceptional dedication to both her family, legal career
and community. Click here to learn more about Kayla’s journey and how she continues to
make an impact inside and outside the courtroom.

Naples Illustrated Magazine Recognizes 37 Henderson Franklin Attorneys as “Top Lawyers”

The September 2024 issue of Naples Illustrated announced that 37 Henderson Franklin
attorneys have been recognized as “Top Lawyers” in 18 different practice areas, including: 

Richard Akin, Land Use and Zoning Law
Scott Atwood, Labor and Employment Law
Scott Beatty, Business Litigation
Matthew Belcastro, Construction Law
Edward Canterbury, Real Estate Law
Anthony Cetrangelo, Jr., Trusts and Estates
Thomas Clark, Health Care Law
Michael Corso, Insurance Law
Amanda DorioTrusts and Estates
Nicole Goetz, Family Law
Thomas Gunderson, Real Estate Law
Eric Gurgold, Trusts and Estates
Erin Houck-Toll, Business/Corporate
Colby Keefe, Real Estate Law
Carlos Kelly, Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law
James Kerr, Trusts and Estates
David Ledermann, Employee Benefits Law
Richard Mancini, Trusts and Estates
Christina O’Brien, Family Law
Geraldo Olivo, III, Insurance Law
Shannon Puopolo, Business Litigation
Gary Rhodes, Business Litigation
Kayla Richmond, Family Law
David Roos, Workers’ Compensation Law
Amanda Ross, Admiralty & Maritime Law
Alessandro Secino, Real Estate Law
Spencer Shaw, Workers’ Compensation Law
Brendan Shearman, Insurance Law
Douglas Szabo, Business Litigation
Madison Tanner, Legal Malpractice Law
Donald Thomson, Alternative Dispute Resolution
Beth Vogelsang, Family Law
Guy Whitesman, Tax Law
Russell Whittle, Workers’ Compensation Law
Jeff Wright, Land Use and Zoning Law
Iman Zekri, Appellate Practice and Family Law
Sharon Zuccaro, Real Estate Law

This recognition is based entirely on peer reviews, reflecting the respect and trust
these attorneys have earned in the legal community.  Click here to read the full
press release.

Henderson Franklin Community Efforts

As members of the local community, we extend a warm invitation to join us at upcoming
events, including:

– October 10, 2024, Collier County Bar Association’s Annual DCA Dinner
– October 11, 2024, Babcock Ranch Foundation Mardi Gras Invitational
– October 25, 2024, Horizon Council Industry Appreciation Awards
– November 6, 2024, Lee County Bar Association Foundation Wine Tasting
– November 16, 2024, Nashville Night at Babcock Ranch 
– November 21, 2024, Valerie’s House Sunset Soiree  
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Matthew Belcastro Recertified as Construction Law Expert by The Florida Bar