Learn what probate is, why it can be costly and time-consuming, and discover smart strategies to avoid it—like revocable trusts, beneficiary designations, joint ownership, and small estate planning.

The essential factors to keep in mind when choosing a guardian for your little ones. Without a formal guardianship designation in place, the courts will decide who raises your children - and their choice may not align with your wishes.

Starting January 1st, 2026, the federal estate, gift, and Generation Skipping Transfer exemption jumps to $15 million per person/$30 million per married couple.

Whether it's marriage, divorce, or another major life event, your estate plan needs to reflect your current wishes and circumstances. From updating beneficiaries to redefining powers of attorney, timely adjustments are crucial to protecting your future. Don't leave your legacy to chance.

It’s never easy bringing up topics like wills and trusts with your parents — but it’s one of the most important conversations you’ll ever have. Want guidance on how to approach it with clarity and care?

Fiduciaries play a crucial role in estate administration—and they’re entitled to compensation for their services. Whether outlined in a Will or Trust or determined by New York law, payments depend on estate size and responsibilities.

It might sound surprising, but there are valid reasons to say no to an inheritance, including tax planning, debt avoidance, family agreements, and maintaining eligibility for government benefits. However, renouncing must be done properly—within 9 months, in writing, and filed with the court. Missed the deadline? You may still petition the Surrogate’s Court for approval.

Exciting updates in New York real estate law are strengthening protections for homeowners, particularly against deed theft and estate planning challenges. Here’s what’s changing: Deed Theft is Now Grand Larceny; More Time to Fight Back; New Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed. These changes aim to safeguard homeownership and make estate planning more accessible.

Have you named a guardian for your children? If not, the courts could make that choice for you—possibly selecting someone you wouldn’t have picked. In the worst case, your children could even face temporary foster care.

A joint account can be a simple and efficient way to transfer funds without the delays of probate! When one account holder passes, ownership often transfers automatically to the surviving co-owner(s), ensuring immediate access to funds.

Without a legally designated guardian, the courts could decide who raises your children—or worse, they could face temporary foster care. Choosing the right guardian means considering values, health, location, and financial stability. Don’t wait—make it official and secure your family’s future.

In a will contest, one party may claim the will was created under undue influence, meaning the decedent's free will was overpowered by another’s dominating influence.