Estate Planning

Estate Planning

What is joint ownership and how can it affect your estate plan?

Joint ownership refers to property held by two or more people. It typically happens when family members or business partners invest in a property together. Joint ownership is more common with married couple, who buy a home or share assets. Depending on the type of...

An executor’s guide to balancing family ties and duties

The loss of a parent can bring a complex mix of emotions, which can intensify even further as the children try to navigate the intricacies of the estate they leave behind. As siblings come together to settle their parent's affairs, many legal challenges can test their...

3 things to consider when choosing a guardian for your children

Estate planning involves more than just managing your assets; it ensures your family's future well-being. A crucial part of this process is selecting a guardian for your children. This decision impacts your children's upbringing if you cannot care for them. Here are...

What qualities should you look for in an executor?

Choosing the right executor for your estate ensures they carry out your wishes smoothly after your passing. The executor manages your estate's affairs, from settling debts to distributing assets to beneficiaries. Here are five essential qualities to consider when...

Why consider a life insurance trust for your child?

One of your biggest concerns as a parent is ensuring your child's financial security, especially when you're no longer around. Setting up a life insurance trust for your child can provide financial security and protect their future. A life insurance policy on its own...

How can I avoid probate in New York?

When someone passes away, their loved ones are often left to navigate the complex, costly and time-consuming process of probate. This is why many people seek ways to bypass probate. You may hear other people recommending revocable or living trusts to do that. However,...

Can you strip a trustee of their powers?

Estate planning involves many important decisions, including choosing a trustee to manage a trust’s assets. You might assume that once a trustee assumes their role, the trust will succeed. Unfortunately, things do not always work out, and you may find yourself needing...

Why a simple will may not be enough for your NY family

Having a will is crucial to protecting your family's future. It is a powerful document that allows you to specify how you want to distribute your assets after you pass away, helping prevent disputes and keeping the peace in your family. But while a will is a crucial...

Clarifying common misconceptions about trusts in estate planning

In estate planning, a trust can be a powerful tool for those who want to protect their assets. In addition, having a trust can allow the grantor to ensure the fulfillment of their wishes after they pass away. But with so much misinformation circulating, it is no...

Understanding unequal inheritances

When it comes to estate planning, you might assume that dividing assets equally among heirs is the fairest approach. However, unequal inheritances make sense in some situations and can be the most equitable solution. Below are scenarios where this strategy can be...