Queens Estate Planning Attorney

Wills, Estate Planning, and Probate Services

Planning for the future is one of the most significant steps you can take to safeguard your loved ones and ensure that your wishes are honored. At Simon & Gilman, LLP, we recognize the importance of crafting a tailored estate plan that aligns with your goals. Our experienced %Queens estate planning attorneys, specialize in helping clients understand the intricacies of wills, trusts, and other estate planning tools that provide peace of mind. Contact Simon & Gilman, LLP to schedule your free estate planning consultation.

What is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is a comprehensive process that involves arranging for the management and distribution of your assets during your life and after your passing. A Queens estate planning lawyer assists in creating essential documents such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. This not only helps in the seamless transfer of assets but also ensures that healthcare and guardianship decisions are in place should you become incapacitated.

Why Work with an Estate Planning Attorney?

Choosing an experienced estate planning attorney in Queens, NY, provides invaluable benefits. Our local expertise allows us to navigate New York State laws effectively, ensuring that your estate plan is both compliant and reflective of your specific needs. With the right guidance, you can:

• Ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
• Minimize estate taxes to preserve wealth for your heirs.
• Designate guardians for minor children.
• Avoid the lengthy probate process through the effective use of trusts.

Key Components of Estate Planning

Our estate planning lawyers can help with various elements of your plan:

• Drafting Wills: Wills are foundational documents that outline how your assets should be distributed and appoint an executor to manage your estate.
• Setting Up Trusts: Trusts offer more flexibility and can help avoid probate, protect beneficiaries, and reduce tax burdens.
• Establishing Powers of Attorney: Assign someone you trust to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you're unable to do so.
• Healthcare Directives: Choose a healthcare proxy who can make medical decisions if you are incapacitated.

What Is a Probate Lawyer?

A probate lawyer is a legal professional specializing in managing the probate process, which involves the court-supervised distribution of an individual’s estate after death. These attorneys assist executors, administrators, and beneficiaries in navigating legal requirements, resolving disputes, and ensuring compliance with local probate laws. Whether you're managing an estate with or without a will, a probate lawyer can help streamline the process and avoid costly errors.

Why You Need a Probate Lawyer?

Handling an estate in Queens can be particularly challenging due to New York’s specific probate regulations and procedures. Hiring a Queens probate lawyer ensures you receive expert guidance to navigate these complexities. From filing the necessary legal documents to representing you in court if disputes arise, our attorneys at Simon & Gilman, LLP are equipped to handle even the most intricate cases with professionalism and care.

Understanding the Probate Process in Queens

The probate process in Queens involves court oversight to distribute assets, pay debts, and settle any outstanding claims. This process ensures that the decedent's wishes are honored or, in cases without a will, that the estate is distributed according to New York state law. A Queens probate lawyer from Simon & Gilman, LLP can help with:

• Filing the will with the appropriate Surrogate's Court.
• Identifying and valuing assets of the estate.
• Resolving disputes among beneficiaries.
• Ensuring debts and taxes are paid properly.
• Distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries.

Probate Without a Will in Queens

When a person dies without a will (intestate), the probate process becomes more complicated. New York's intestacy laws determine how the estate will be divided, which may not align with the decedent's wishes. Our Queens probate lawyers can assist with navigating these laws, ensuring the estate is distributed as efficiently and fairly as possible while minimizing delays and disputes.

How Simon & Gilman, LLP Can Help With Probate and Estate Planning

At Simon & Gilman, LLP, we pride ourselves on offering compassionate and thorough legal support for individuals and families in Queens. Whether you need assistance drafting a will, setting up a trust, or managing the probate process, our experienced team is here to help. With our in-depth knowledge of New York probate laws, we ensure that your interests are protected at every step.

Contact Queens Probate Lawyers at Simon & Gilman, LLP Today

If you're looking for a reliable Queens probate lawyer, trust Simon & Gilman, LLP to provide personalized, professional legal services tailored to your needs. Whether you're navigating probate or planning for the future, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation: Get in Touch.

Common Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Without proper planning, even small oversights can lead to significant challenges. Some common mistakes include:

• Failing to update your estate plan after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, or childbirth.
• Overlooking the importance of naming contingent beneficiaries.
• Not considering how state-specific laws, such as those in New York, affect your estate plan.

Our team ensures these pitfalls are avoided, keeping your plan current and effective.

The Benefits of Early Estate Planning

Beginning the estate planning process early provides several advantages, including peace of mind and financial security. By addressing your estate planning needs proactively, you can:

• Ensure your estate reflects your current wishes.
• Protect loved ones from unnecessary legal and financial burdens.
• Maintain control over how your assets are managed and distributed.

Contact an Estate Planning Attorney in Queens, NY Today

Taking the first step toward comprehensive estate planning can make all the difference for you and your family. Simon & Gilman, LLP, is here to guide you through the process with the care and attention you deserve. Contact us at Simon & Gilman, LLP in Queens, NY to schedule your free initial consultation. Secure your future with a team prioritizing your peace of mind.