Estate Planning

Last Will & Testament Special Needs Trust Durable Powers of Attorney Living Wills Disability & Special Needs Civil Union Partnerships

Tax & Gift Tax Planning Life Insurance Trusts Retirement Benefit Planning Irrevocable & Grantor Trusts Second Marriages

Preserving family assets when a parent has to go into a nursing home is only one of the important strategies to consider in estate planning. Without a will and proper planning, inheritance and tax issues can add undue stress to family relationships

Customized estate planning strategies for individuals, families, and seniors are designed to carry out the wishes of our clients for management and distribution of assets during their lifetimes or after death.

With a thorough analysis of assets and needs, we help our clients take advantage of innovative methods of asset protection taking into account inheritance tax law, property rights, and the special needs of beneficiaries.

Cases involving minor children, disabled beneficiaries, or beneficiaries living in nursing homes or receiving public benefits may require Special Needs Trusts that can protect benefits for a person with disabilities, and if needed, we pursue court approval or amendment of trust.

Guardianship and Estate Litigation

Contested and Uncontested Guardianships Will and Trust Reformations Will and Trust Disputes

Our 4 Elder Law attorneys represent parties in all aspects of litigation involving contested and uncontested guardianship, living wills, trusts, and estates. If a trust is inadequate or needs to be established, we seek court approval. Our knowledge and experience enables us to handle the many complicated matters that people face in their golden years as well as end-of-life issues.

Probate and Estate Administration

Probate Last Will & Testament Inheritance & Estate Taxes Accounting & Distribution

Appointment as Executor, Trustee or Guardian Administration of Estates & Trusts

The legal process by which a Will is filed with the County Surrogate is called Probate. To ensure that the Estate and Inheritance Tax returns (if required) are filed properly and the deceased’s assets are distributed correctly, it is important to have experienced management and guidance.

When a person dies without a will (Intestate), an Administrator is appointed for the estate. It is the Administrator’s job to determine the assets owned by the deceased at the time of death; the bills and liabilities left by the deceased; and the claims made against the deceased or the estate.

We advise you on the proper procedures for administering an estate; and we help you to manage the burdensome details. Recognized for their extensive experience, our Estate attorneys are also appointed by the courts as guardians, trustees or administrators.