What is estate planning? 
Estate planning is managing the accumulation and disposition of an estate. Most often, the intent of estate planning is to minimize taxes and maximize the transfer of wealth to the intended beneficiary. Wills, trusts, powers of appointment, powers of attorney, health care proxies, and living wills can all be used in planning your estate. Understanding Estate Planning Laws in Queens
You work so that you can provide a future for yourself and your family. You acquire property, assets, investments, and perhaps build a business. All that you own in your estate will be distributed upon your passing, but where it goes is up to you—if you have a will and a plan for your estate.
Having a well-defined Brooklyn or Queens estate plan to protect your property, assets, and business can ensure that what you have in mind is followed. But developing a plan means understanding New York estate planning laws and how they affect your future. Whether you live in Queens, Brooklyn, or any of the five boroughs in New York, the state's probate codes determine the requirements for completing a will, set the guidelines for determining the validity of a will, and set forth the methods for declaring your wishes. A thorough knowledge of estate planning laws in Queens and greater New York is the first step in a peaceful future. The A. Lunard Odom, Law Firm, P.C. is experienced in estate planning and helping individuals plan for their future by meeting all the requirements of the law, minimizing the chances of estate litigation in Queens and Brooklyn.
How estate planning laws affect those living in Queens
As experienced Queens estate planning lawyers, we help you set goals and make sure your property goes to whom it is intended. The basic purpose of planning an estate is to create a plan for your heirs and family so that the distribution or transfer of your property is done in a way that the least taxes are paid, reducing the burden on your family. We help clients understand what a will is and does in order to make informed decisions and develop a solid plan. Laws are meant to protect the citizens of New York, but if not followed, your desires may be become very complicated. The probate code in New York defines:
- What an estate is: Everything the person owns, including real and personal property, investments, assets, insurance, etc.
- Distribution of the estate: Ensuring that all property is properly distributed to its intended parties, including any debts owed by the estate.
- Planning:
- What are acceptable forms of a will / testament
- Who may receive testamentary dispositions
Family rights: Spouses and children, including multiple family scenarios
- Powers of attorney: Who is the executor or administrator of your will
Estate litigation in Queens
There are times when even the best laid estate plans are questioned. Individuals or businesses or other parties may attempt to lay claim to your estate. When a will is contested, it creates ill-will between parties. Because emotions and stress are already high, our firm can provide objectivity and clarity in the confusion. As a skilled Queens estate planning law firm with experienced administrators and lawyers, we can expertly address any Brooklyn or Queens estate litigation issues.
Experienced and caring legal assistance
We are dedicated to serving the needs of each of our clients in an understanding and compassionate manner. Contact us online or call us at (866) 570-9638 for experienced and caring legal assistance with estate and tax planning, elder care and guardianship, business establishment and succession planning, and related issues.
