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Q: Why are so many celebrities dying without wills?

The simple answer would be – – because they are human.

There are many reasons why people die without a will. One reason is that the whole idea of the estate planning process is intimidating to the average person who may be nervous about dealing with an estate planning attorney.

What are some factors to consider when choosing a guardian for your child?

Selecting a guardian for your minor child is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. For many couples, choosing a guardian seems an impossible task. At times, parents will feel so overwhelmed with the monumental choice of naming a guardian that they may cease all estate planning.

Q: Can I inherit from someone if I killed them?

Children. Those who have them often say they drive them crazy, but in the majority of cases parents consider their children to be one of life's greatest blessings. It is that sentiment that brings them to the offices of New York and New Jersey estate planning attorneys to provide them with a secure future.

Q: What happens if I die without a will?

New York and New Jersey estate planning attorneys are not only experts at helping clients put their legal affairs in order, but the most experienced ones are also skilled in the relevant tax laws that impact those estate planning decisions.

Unfortunately, the same can’t generally be said for most financial planners having reciprocal legal knowledge. So, when people limit themselves to doing only financial planning, they do themselves a great disservice and can cost themselves and their loved ones unnecessary money and grief down the line with no estate plan.

Q: When should planning for incapacity be done and can it prevent elder abuse?

Planning for incapacity is an important part of New York and New Jersey estate planning.

In addition to a last will and testament ...

Q: Is a do-it-yourself will valid?

With the exception of service members making a will during an armed conflict, New York does not recognize handwritten or oral wills. New Jersey may recognize a handwritten will if it meets certain requirements but will not recognize oral wills. In both states, you must be 18 years or older and of sound mind to make a will and among other things it must be signed by at least two witnesses to be considered valid.

Q: What is probate and why do people avoid it?

New York and New Jersey estate planning attorneys help people plan for their death and potential incapacity through the drafting of various legal documents collectively referred to as a comprehensive estate plan.

With respect to the distribution of assets and property after death, a last will and testament—also known as a will-- or living trust or both may be utilized to transfer the decedent’s property.

Upon death, certain property and accounts transfer automatically without the necessity of court intervention.

Q: What is a will contest?

New York and New Jersey estate planning attorneys review a client’s complete family and financial situation in order to determine the best way to meet the client’s goals. Then, a personalized estate plan will be crafted with those goals in mind. It may include a will, with or without trusts, as well as additional documents which provide for the client’s possible disability prior to death.

Q: What is financial elder abuse?

Addressing your financial concerns is a big part of the estate planning experience. Examining what you have and what you may need for yourself and your family now and in the future is all factored into what estate planning documents are best for your particular situation.

Is it lawful to rent a space for a marijuana business?

New York may be the next state to legalize the use of recreational marijuana. Governor Cuomo issued a directive several months ago to study the potential impact of a regulated marijuana program, and just recently the New York State Department of Health Commissioner indicated that it will recommend legalizing the use of marijuana in its report to the state. Should New York authorize the use of marijuana in the state, many industries will be impacted.

Q: Is it a good time to buy or sell real estate on Staten Island?

Buying a home on Staten Island is likely the biggest transaction most people make in their lifetime, so hiring an experienced Staten Island real estate attorney to protect you and your investment is both smart and necessary. In fact, seeking legal guidance before or during the house-hunting phase can help avoid costly mistakes or delays later on. It can also save you money by giving you information to negotiate a better sales price and terms.