In Pinellas County, judges deserve credit for consistently requiring some bond, but the bonds are often low. But the most important reason, say judges and lawyers, is to save estates the cost of a bond premium. Of course not. Yet, that's exactly what they are doing with other people's property. Surely, many beneficiaries would be willing to sacrifice a fraction of their inheritance to guard against losing it all.
Lawyers occupy a special position of trust in our legal system.
As officers of the court, they enjoy great freedom and power. When lawyers abuse that power to plunder an inheritance, the system must help make things right. Too often, Florida courts and lawyers have forgotten that duty. Recall the case study that began this series. Thomas' heirs are working folks who planned to use Uncle Joe's gift to pay off medical bills, send their kids to school, or invest in a safer home.