Andrea R.
Wills Lawyer for Clear, Valid Estate Plans in New York
Make Your Wishes Clear—And Legally Enforceable
If you’ve been putting off creating a will, you’re not alone. Many people wonder whether a simple online form is enough—or worry their family could face confusion if something happens. In New York, a will must meet specific legal requirements to be valid. At Simon & Gilman LLP, we help clients in New York draft wills that reflect real-life situations and comply fully with state law, so your decisions are clear and enforceable.
Trusted Estate Planning Support in New York
+ Reviews
Review us on Google
Read More Reviews
Cameron H.
Juan V.
Patricia Z.
Adama D.
Jonathan S.
Marissa
Elizabeth S.
Eddyqueens
Ginger T.
Esteban B.
Hologramemc
Yakelyn A.
Gerri
AJ
Alecia W.
Real J.
Rodney C.
Mad S.
Myrna C.
Ticalvin
Ashlee R.
Yong S.
Jeffry E.
Indira G.
Isaac P.
Michael G.
Chantol G.
Will Z.
Ana T.
Anthony D.
Luis M.
Niece C.
Sam H.
Pheona M.
Anisa A.
Jet G.
Alexandra A.
Helene S.
Kimberly J.
Sara E.
Bunny R.
Kevin S.
Brenda F.
Thrilla M.
Rujutsu
Malik A.
Shadise B.
Michael W.
Isabel B.
E M.
Joe C.
Miriam P.
Krystal G.
Kathy G.
Renee G.
Dmitry K.
Louise G.
Danny V.
Kera W.
Tonya C.
Er H.
Angel R.
Suzanne S.
Shawn W.
Ana N.
Ergin H.
Dc W.
Nazima K.
Kalamodeen S.
John M.
Natalie B.
Diana B.
Frank S.
Nelson V.
Anant C.
Jennifer M.
Daniel J.
Keith M.
Russell
Nowsherwan K.
Ryan Y.
Susie K.
Harriet J.
What a Will Can—and Can’t—Do
Understanding the role of a will helps you plan more effectively.
What a Will Can Do
- Direct how your assets are distributed
- Name guardians for minor children
- Appoint an executor to manage your estate
- Provide clear written instructions for your family
What a Will Cannot Do
- Avoid probate in most cases
- Control jointly owned assets or certain beneficiary-designated accounts
- Replace the need for other planning tools like trusts in complex situations
We explain these distinctions clearly so your plan matches your goals.
How to Create a Valid Will in New York
A valid last will and testament in New York must follow specific legal steps:
Errors in execution can make a will invalid. Drafting and signing the document correctly the first time helps prevent disputes later.
What to Bring to Your Will Planning Meeting
Preparing ahead of time makes the process more efficient. Consider bringing:
- A list of your assets (property, accounts, investments)
- Names of beneficiaries and their relationship to you
- Guardian preferences for minor children
- The person you want to serve as executor
We guide you through each step so nothing important is overlooked.
Get Help Title Here
Contact Us
Thank you for contacting us.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Oops, there was an error sending your message.
Please try again later.
Please try again later.
Get Help Now!
Do You Need a Will If You Own a Co-op in New York?
Owning a co-op or other property in New York makes having a will especially important. Without one, New York law determines how your interest is distributed, which may not reflect your intentions. A properly drafted will ensures your property is transferred according to your wishes and helps reduce uncertainty for your family.
Can You Change Your Will Later?
Yes. A will can be updated as your life changes. Marriage, divorce, new children, property purchases, or other major events are all reasons to review and revise your document. Keeping your will current ensures it continues to reflect your intentions.
Common Questions About Wills in New York
Do I need a lawyer to draft a will?
While it is possible to create a will on your own, legal guidance helps ensure compliance with New York requirements and reduces the risk of errors.
What should I include in a will?
Your will should address asset distribution, guardianship, and executor appointment, along with any specific instructions you want followed.
How often should I update my will?
It’s recommended to review your will every few years or after major life changes.
Take the First Step Toward a Clear Plan
Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and your future. Simon & Gilman LLP has served New York since 1978, helping clients put clear, legally sound plans in place. Start today with a consultation and move forward with confidence.