But I went to a seminar, had a nice lunch and Fred the seminar guy said . . . .

While I personally do not know any seminar guy named “Fred,” I am surprised how many times I am speaking to someone about estate planning when suddenly the potential client tells me about what that person “knows” based on what was said at a seminar.   Estate planning seminars are very popular in Florida.  Generally what happens is that some financial planning agency or brokerage will contact a bunch of people and offer a “free” lunch.  Then during the time you are eating, someone will speak about how great so-and-so agency is.  Usually, there will be a self professed “expert” who will speak about a given estate planning topic. 

It is very important that you understand that unless you get something in writing from the speaker (not likely) than the advise you receive may or may not be correct.  Many times people will tell me what they heard at a seminar and what they heard is simply wrong.  I would never rely on what somebody said at a seminar.  Here the phrase “you get what you pay for” is very true.  Further, even if you clearly remember what somebody told you, unless what you were told is in writing, the speaker can always simply say that “that is not what I said” or “that is not what I meant.” Therefore, if you have questions and you need to rely on the advice received, set up an appointment with Matthew Linde at Linde Law Group.  Generally, with potential estate planning clients, I provide a 15 minute free consultation.