As part of our ongoing series on Avoiding Probate in New York, we examine the issue of retirement accounts and beneficiaries. As always, we preface the discussion by saying that avoiding probate does not mean you do not need a New York City probate lawyer. In fact, investing in professional…
The beneficiaries of the estate of a wealthy Connecticut woman have agreed to settle a dispute over changes made to her Will after she was diagnosed with dementia, Bloomberg News reported. Sadly, theft from the elderly and other forms of estate fraud are an all-too-common occurrence. A New York City…
New York Executors, Administrators and Guardians have the responsibility of ascertaining, protecting and collecting the assets, documents and other effects of the estate or incapacitated person they are appointed to oversee. The New York Probate Lawyer Blog has previously discussed fiduciary responsibility concerning asset determination and protection. An interesting aspect…
The Federal estate tax ceased to exist in the year 2010. At least for most of the year it seemed that the estate of a person who died in 2010 would not be subject to any Federal estate tax. However, since other provisions relating to the estate tax, particularly, “step-up”…
As we discuss the pros and cons of avoiding probate court that certainly does not mean you will not need the help of a probate lawyer in New York City. As part of our ongoing series on estate settling options, we reported on our New York Probate Lawyer Blog that…
Consulting a New York City probate attorney is always the best option when establishing estate plans, executing a Will or deciding upon the best course of action for distributing your estate after your passing. For some, probate court is a good option. Others may choose estate planning options that permit…
The New York Probate Lawyer Blog has previously discussed numerous aspects concerning the appointment and duties of an Article 81 personal needs and property management Guardian. Very often the assets of the incapacitated person includes real property such as a home. It may become necessary for the Guardian to sell…
New York and Federal Laws generally provide many advantages and protections for married individuals. For example, in New York a person may not disinherit his or her spouse. New York Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) Section 5-1.1-A provides a spouse with a Right of Election to take a portion…
As we begin 2011, we encourage you to take special care in planning for the welfare of a child with special needs. Consulting a New York City guardianship attorney is a great way to bring peace of mind to the issue of caring for a child or adult-child in your…
While many seek the advice of a New York City probate lawyer to establish a Will, trusts, or other estate plans, far too many will die intestate, without a Will or other directions for the dispersal of their estate upon their death. As we wrote recently on our New York…