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Don’t Fall for These Debt Collection Scams After a Death
In my years as a New York probate attorney, I’ve seen an alarming trend: scammers targeting grieving families with fake debt collection calls. These predators scan obituaries and public records, then approach family members claiming the deceased owed them money. Today, I want to warn you about these schemes and…

What Is Probate?
When a loved one passes away, the emotional toll is often overwhelming. On top of grieving, families are left with the responsibility of managing their affairs—especially their estate. That’s where probate comes in. If you’ve ever heard the term but weren’t quite sure what it meant or how it works…

What Is a Notice of Probate in New York?
If you’ve recently received a “Notice of Probate,” you may wonder what it means and whether you need to take action. In New York, a Notice of Probate is a formal notification that a loved one’s Last Will and Testament is being submitted to the Surrogate’s Court to begin the…

How Does Probate Work in New York? A Guide to Navigating the Process
We’re tackling one of the more challenging legal processes that families face after the loss of a loved one: probate in New York. Probate is a court-supervised process that ensures a deceased person’s wishes are carried out as stated in their will. Though it can be complex, understanding the basic…

Understanding Exclusions: What Assets are NOT Part of the Probate Process?
The probate process can seem daunting, especially when navigating the myriad of assets left behind by a loved one. While many assets pass through probate, some bypass this legal process altogether. Understanding this distinction is crucial for beneficiaries and executors. Let’s explore these exclusions together. Key Assets Excluded from Probate…

What You Need to Know about an Estate Inventory
If you are serving as the executor of someone’s will, one of the most important tasks you will need to do is to complete an inventory of the decedent’s estate. This could feel like an overwhelming process, especially if the deceased person had a lot of assets. However, knowing more…