How to Create a Will in New York City

A will is the cornerstone of an estate plan. In its simplest form it provides instructions for your last wishes and how your assets and estate should be divided. If you die without a will, your estate will be divided in accordance with your state’s intestacy laws.

What Happens to Your Estate if You Die without a Will

A will helps ensure that your property is divided according to your wishes. Without a will, property is divided according to New York state law, which may not coincide with your wishes. When someone dies without a will, New York state distributes the estate among relatives according to the New York State laws of intestate succession.

Understanding Holographic Wills

A Last Will and Testament (will) is an important estate planning document that specifies what you want done with your property after you die. Some people think that they can write down their wishes without creating a form will. Generally, these wills are not valid in New York.

Key Considerations When Disinheriting Someone in Your Estate Plan

You have the right to disinherit anyone but your spouse or minor children from your last will and testament. Most commonly an issue when parents wish to disinherit adult children, it’s a decision you should never make lightly. After all, it could cause enormous rifts among your family members and beneficiaries, and potentially lead to […]

What are the Common Components of a Cohesive Estate Plan?

Many people who are unfamiliar with estate planning believe that all they really need to plan for their passing and the transfer of their assets is a last will and testament. However, a truly solid and cohesive estate plan will have several components that will help minimize the stress experienced by your loved ones after […]