Protecting Your Home (and Your Heart) in Later-Life Marriages
Finding love later in life is a beautiful thing. But sometimes, the realities of life and past decisions can throw a wrench into the fairy tale. A common scenario I encounter as a New York estate lawyer involves couples where one spouse moves into a home owned by the other’s adult children. It’s a situation […]
Protecting Your Children When You’re Their Only Parent
As a single parent, your plate is already full. You’re juggling work, childcare, school activities, and maybe even a bit of “me time” (if you’re lucky!). It’s understandable that estate planning might not be at the top of your to-do list. But let’s face it: one of the biggest worries for single parents is, “What […]
Should Your Healthcare Agent and Power of Attorney Be the Same Person?
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to put off estate planning. But as a New York estate lawyer, I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to have your affairs in order, especially when it comes to healthcare decisions and financial management. Two key roles in your estate plan are […]
What is a Postnuptial Agreement? Protecting Your Assets and Your Legacy
While the idea of a “prenup” is well-known, postnuptial agreements are often overlooked. These agreements, signed after marriage, can be a vital part of your estate plan. They provide clarity and protection, particularly as your life and circumstances change. What is a Postnuptial Agreement? A postnuptial agreement is a legal contract between spouses outlining the […]
Planning for Embryos: How to Ensure Your Wishes are Legally Honored in Your Estate Plan
Starting the IVF process opens a world of excitement and hope for many couples. But amidst the anticipation, an uncomfortable reality emerges: what happens to the remaining embryos or genetic material if one or both parents die? A Deeply Personal Decision This is a deeply personal decision with strong opinions on all sides. The issue […]
The Complexities of Leaving a Legacy to Your Nieces and Nephews
If you share a close bond with your nieces and nephews, ensuring they’re included in your estate plan is natural. However, the laws of inheritance can complicate things, especially for younger beneficiaries. Let’s unravel the factors to consider: How Inheritance Laws Work without a Will When you die without a will (known as dying “intestate”), […]
Estate Planning When Facing a Nursing Home Transition
The decision to place a parent in a nursing home rarely comes easily. Apart from the emotional toll, significant financial and legal adjustments are often necessary. While immediate well-being takes priority, it’s vital to safeguard your parent’s assets and long-term care needs with proactive estate planning. Questions to Guide Your Consultation Elder law attorneys focus […]
Step by Step Moving Forward After Losing a Spouse
April marks Worldwide Bereaved Spouses Awareness Month, bringing attention to an emotional challenge that many of us will eventually encounter: the loss of a life partner. It’s a difficult transition, and no matter how well-prepared we might think we are, the reality is always a tough journey. Beyond the emotional adjustment, there are practical and […]
Why Setting Up a Trust is a Smart Move When Buying a New Home
Buying a new home is more than just a significant financial investment; it’s a key component of your overall estate. As you embark on this exciting journey, it’s crucial to consider how this asset will be managed, both now and in the future. One effective strategy for managing real estate assets is setting up a […]
Key Differences of Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts
When it comes to estate planning, understanding the different types of trusts available is crucial. Two common types are revocable and irrevocable trusts, each with its own set of features and benefits. As a trust attorney, I often encounter questions about the differences between these two types of trusts and which one might be the […]