Imagine a time when you might be unable to make important decisions for yourself. It’s not something anyone likes to think about, but planning for the future is crucial. A durable power of attorney (POA) is a tool that can help ensure your wishes are carried out when...
Choosing to execute a will is a wise and responsible decision. A will allows you to live with peace of mind knowing that your property will go to those you want it to after you pass away. A will can also contain information on burial or funeral arrangements so your...
Joint ownership is a legal arrangement where two or more people own property together. This can apply to various assets, including real estate, vehicles and investments. Whether you're buying property with a spouse, sharing a bank account with a family member or...
The death of a loved one often prompts questions about their final wishes and estate distribution. In some cases, family members may discover these wishes in unconventional forms, such as handwritten notes on a napkin. However, courts scrutinize the validity and...
Many people assume their assets will smoothly transfer to their loved ones when they pass away. However, in reality, a significant portion of your properties may need to go through a legal process called probate before they even reach your beneficiaries. Probate, the...
In an ideal world, your estate planning would go smoothly, with your family members knowing what to expect as far as inheritances are concerned and without and quibbles over what each individual receives from your estate. Yet, if you’re like many New Yorkers, then you...
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...
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...
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...
The dissolution of a marriage invariably brings significant changes to one’s life, and estate planning is no exception. In New York, a divorce can have profound implications on an existing estate plan, particularly concerning wills, trusts and designated...
