Wills

Wills

3 often-forgotten things that could be added to wills

Estate planning is something that many people in New York and elsewhere push to the back burner. However, even those who have their wills in place might have addressed property, money and children, but overlooked some things that could be included in their wills. Pet...

Wills include more than asset distribution after death

Too many people in New York are unprepared for what the future might have in store for them. Estate planning is not only for older people and those with significant wealth. Others, like single parents, newly enlisted soldiers and anyone who is working and earning...

Contesting wills without legal help a risky prospect

It is not uncommon for people to feel they were unfairly treated in a loved one's will. Although New York state laws allow people to contest wills, it is a complicated legal process that requires much more than not liking the terms of a will. Proving a will to be...

Wills and powers of attorney may need review when relocating

Relocating to another state might affect the validity of some estate planning documents. People who move to or from New York might be caught unawares when a loved one is hospitalized or becomes incapacitated, and they do not have the power to make financial or medical...

Legal counsel can prevent common errors with wills and trusts

Estate planning can be a daunting process, and that might be why -- reportedly -- only about half of all Americans have legacy plans in place. Wills and trusts are essential for people in New York and elsewhere, to make sure their wishes are met for...

Don’t forget to update wills and trusts after a divorce

Ending a marriage is never an easy process, even if the divorce is amicable. It is not uncommon for people in New York and elsewhere to be so overwhelmed by property division, child custody and other issues that they push updating their wills and trusts to the back...

Wills or trusts — which is best?

In many cases, the first stumbling block for people in New York who want to get their estate planning done is understanding the different options. Some think they have to choose between trusts and wills, not realizing that they can have both. Many people choose to...

Contesting a will could be challenging for those who were left out

Losing a loved one is naturally a traumatic experience. When a person discovers that he or she was left out of the will, the trauma is often magnified. However, challenging a will is a complicated process and best handled with legal guidance. Under New York laws, a...

Well-drafted wills can protect children with disabilities

When most New York parents deal with estate planning, they make sure their minor children will be protected and cared for if they should die or become incapacitated. This concern is heightened for parents of children with disabilities. For them, their wills might need...