In New York, estates are settled through probate by an executor, who is named in the will or estate plan. If there is no executor, or the named executor is unable to serve, the estate can be probated by an administrator, typically a professional, who is appointed by...
read moreKeeping track of an estate plan when getting remarried
Remarriages and blended families are not uncommon in New York. With that comes certain issues that, if left unattended, can cause family disputes with rancor and the potential legal ramifications. Those who have gotten remarried, and have children from the previous...After divorce, understanding how to adjust an estate plan is key
When New Yorkers create an estate plan, those who are married will inevitably include their spouse as a key part of it. This can be as the predominant heir and perhaps the executor of the estate. However, after drafting estate planning documents, some marriages will...What factors affect who gets the pet in divorce?
While divorce can be contentious on its own, when a beloved pet is at stake, things can turn downright nasty. While New York doesn’t have as advanced pet custody laws as some states, they have been moving in the right direction. Here’s what impacts who...When can a surviving spouse be disqualified as such in New York?
When a person creates an estate plan, there are laws that dictate how it will be handled after that person – the testator – has died. This is true regardless of the device that is used in the estate plan such as a will, a trust or anything else. The...What should I know about guardianship in New York?
New Yorkers with concerns about loved ones and want to make certain they are taken care of when they are incapable of taking care of themselves should understand the alternatives they have under the law. One method is through a guardianship. This is especially...Contracts in elder care facilities
The health care industry is not known for its transparency when it comes to cost. Elder care and assisted living facilities mimic hospitals in hiding, or at least not promoting, the fees and costs associated with using them. If you are considering one of these...
