Digital assets are far more common in 2026 than they were for previous generations. Americans spend millions of dollars annually on things that they do not own in any physical sense. This can get a bit complex when making an estate plan. There are some situations in...
Buffalo New York Legal Blog
Does a beneficiary get their inheritance immediately?
When someone passes away, their estate generally goes through probate. Beneficiaries will typically get their inheritances, but it may not happen immediately. The probate process can take weeks or months, depending on the complexity of the estate, the availability of...
How a living trust can help you avoid probate in New York
If you are worried about your family facing months of court delays and legal fees after you pass away, a living trust may offer a practical solution. Probate in New York can take significant time and money, and many people want to spare their loved ones that burden....
Nursing home planning for married couples
Many married couples spend years planning for retirement, but give little thought to the possibility that one spouse may eventually require nursing home care. Long-term care costs can be substantial, and without proper planning, those expenses may place a significant...
Selecting an appropriate successor trustee
People who want to protect their resources, structure their legacies and minimize probate issues might create revocable living trusts. The person funding a trust, known as the trustor or grantor, often acts as the initial trustee. They manage resources and make trust...
What happens to the things you forgot to include in your estate plan?
When people think about estate planning, they often focus on the big things like a home, savings account or important family heirlooms. Smaller or less obvious assets can easily slip through the cracks, especially when life gets busy and financial accounts become...
How the Medicaid lookback penalties may affect older adults
People who have never relied on state benefits may find them necessary in their golden years. Even professionals who have long prided themselves on meeting all of their own needs may eventually need professional caregiver support or even a room in a nursing home. When...
Three important documents you are missing in your estate plan
If you have a will, congratulations. You are already ahead of most of your peers. Recent estimates find more than two-thirds of adults do not have a will in place. Although having a will in place is already a big win, it is important to also include three specific...
Do I need a letter of instruction with my will in New York?
Imagine your family gathers after your passing, only to find no access to your digital accounts or any record of your preferred funeral arrangements. While a will handles your assets, it often remains silent on the immediate, practical details your loved ones need....
What makes a will legally valid in New York?
Many people assume writing a will is simple. Online forms make the process look quick and easy, but New York law sets clear rules that decide whether a will is valid. Without a valid will, the court may distribute your estate under New York intestacy law instead of...

