Blog

    Navigating the Pros and Cons of Splitting Decision-Making Powers in Your Estate Plan

    Some clients wonder if they should divide decision-making responsibilities among adult children or other trusted helpers in their estate plan. I often discuss scenarios where one person might serve as financial power of attorney while another handles healthcare decisions. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with this approach, understanding the potential…

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    How Can I Protect My Kids With Estate Planning?

    As a father of two beautiful little girls, there’s nothing I wouldn’t do to protect them. From holding their hands when they cross the street to comforting them during a thunderstorm, my instinct is to shield them from harm. But what if I weren’t here to do that? It’s difficult…

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    Protecting Your Child’s Inheritance from Their Spouse

    One of the most common concerns I hear from parents is surprisingly consistent: “How can I make sure my son-in-law or daughter-in-law doesn’t walk away with my child’s inheritance if they get divorced?” It’s a delicate subject. While we all hope our children’s marriages last forever, divorce statistics make this…

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    Who Is Responsible for Debts After Someone Passes Away?

    Losing a loved one is never easy, and it often comes with a long list of responsibilities—legal, financial, and emotional. One of the most common and confusing questions during this time is: “Who is responsible for the debts left behind?” Whether credit card balances, personal loans, or outstanding medical bills,…

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    What Happens If Your Partner Passes Away?

    If you have suffered the loss of your life partner, my heart goes out to you: few things in this world are quite as devastating. As a probate lawyer, I know grief can debilitate, and the ‘to-do’ list in the immediate aftermath can seem impossible to manage. Please understand: you…

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    Can I Write My Own Will in New York?

    As an experienced New York will and trust lawyer, I’m often asked whether residents can legally write their own wills without an attorney. The short answer is yes—New York law does allow individuals to create their own wills. However, the more important question isn’t whether you can, but whether you…

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