Laws surrounding probate and other associated legal procedures can vary by state. In most cases, alternative legal options, such as a small estate affidavit, are available if the deceased's estate meets specific conditions. This more straightforward and quicker method...
Year: 2024
What you need to know about Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts
Understanding asset protection and healthcare eligibility can be challenging for many individuals. A Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT) offers a strategic solution to this dilemma, allowing for the preservation of personal wealth while maintaining eligibility for...
Should a trust be included in your estate plan?
An estate plan in New York can include more than a will. Many people choose to set up a trust as part of the estate planning process. Contrary to what you may believe, trusts are not only for rich people or people with many high-value assets. A trust can be a valuable...
Know this key requirement before a will can be probated
In New York, a will is a crucial document that details how a person’s assets will be distributed and other issues are settled after they are gone. Having a will is a positive step as it ensures the person – known as the testator – sees their objectives are met and...
How do debts get handled in probate?
When you hear the word probate, you might automatically think of the distribution of assets to heirs and beneficiaries. While this is part of the New York probate process, debts are another part of the process that cannot be overlooked. If you are appointed to serve...
Estate planning errors that can disrupt your vision of the future
Creating a thoughtful estate plan takes time. When you’re done with the process, you might feel proud of yourself and what you’ve accomplished. But after sitting with your estate plan for a little while you might want to revisit it to ensure that it’ll truly provide...
Qualifying for Medicaid and protecting your assets
Your potential need for long-term care is real. And if you end up needing a nursing home stay or some other form of long-term care, you’re bound to incur significant costs that can quickly erode the wealth that you’ve worked hard to accumulate. As a result, you might...
Are there considerations for including guns in an estate plan?
For gun enthusiasts and collectors alike, in New York, integrating firearms into an estate plan requires careful attention due to state laws governing their inheritance. First, it is crucial to verify the legal ownership and registration of the firearm by the...
How can I ensure my will is legally valid?
New Yorkers who are just learning about the will creation process may not be aware of the requirements for a valid will in their state. However, meeting these requirements is essential to making sure the court finds your will to be valid when the time comes to...
An estate plan will be automatically impacted by a divorce
In New York, people who have created an estate plan have the right to feel a sense of satisfaction that they have taken steps to shore up their future and are prepared. A well-crafted estate plan can address all issues such as who will receive property, how businesses...

