Wills, Trust & Estates Lawyer in Queens, NY

Do you require legal help with a trust or will in Queens, NY? Do you need a living will, healthcare proxy, or power of attorney? Putting one’s affairs in order can provide reassurance for you and your loved ones, especially during uncertain times. At Bardizbanian & Associates, P.C., our experienced wills trusts and estates lawyers will assess your unique circumstances and craft a personalized estate plan to protect your assets and legacy. Call our wills and trust lawyers today at 332-264-5169 or fill out our form for a free consultation.

Why Hire a Wills and Trust Lawyer?

A wills and trust attorney ensures your estate plan aligns with current New York laws while avoiding costly mistakes. Estate laws are complex and frequently updated, and an experienced attorney can provide the legal insight necessary to make informed decisions. Whether you need a last will and testament, a revocable trust, or guidance on minimizing estate taxes, hiring a seasoned Queens estate lawyer is essential.

Beyond legal compliance, an attorney helps you structure your estate to minimize conflicts, ensure proper asset distribution, and safeguard your loved ones from unnecessary court proceedings. With a well-crafted estate plan, you can prevent probate delays, maintain privacy, and secure financial stability for your heirs.

Understanding Wills and Trusts in New York

Creating a will or trust is a fundamental step in estate planning. A wills trusts and estates lawyer in Queens, NY can help you determine the best approach based on your assets, family structure, and long-term goals.

Last Will and Testament: A legally binding document that dictates how your assets will be distributed upon your passing.
Living Trust: A trust allows your assets to be managed and distributed without going through probate.
Special Needs Trust: Designed to provide for a loved one with disabilities while preserving their eligibility for government benefits.
Testamentary Trust: A trust created within a will, which takes effect upon the individual’s passing.

Whether you need a simple will or a complex trust structure, working with a wills and trust lawyer ensures your plan is legally sound and reflects your intentions.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Draft a Will in New York?

While New York law does not require an attorney to draft a will, working with a wills and trust attorney significantly reduces the risk of errors. A valid will must be properly signed, witnessed by two individuals, and free of ambiguity. Mistakes in drafting or executing a will can result in legal disputes or even invalidation by the court.

By hiring a wills trusts and estates lawyer, you ensure that your final wishes are clear, legally binding, and protected from potential challenges.

Benefits of a Living Trust

A living trust offers multiple advantages compared to a traditional will. A Queens estate lawyer can help you decide if this is the right option for your estate plan.

Probate Avoidance: Assets placed in a trust bypass the probate process, allowing beneficiaries to receive their inheritance without court delays.
Privacy Protection: Unlike a will, which becomes a public document, a trust keeps your financial affairs private.
Incapacity Planning: If you become incapacitated, your designated trustee can manage your assets seamlessly without court intervention.
Control Over Distribution: Trusts allow you to set specific conditions for asset distribution, such as staggered inheritance payments for young beneficiaries.

Establishing a trust with the help of a wills and trust lawyer can provide long-term security and peace of mind.

The Importance of a Power of Attorney (POA)

A Power of Attorney (POA) grants someone the authority to handle your financial and legal matters if you become incapacitated. Without a POA, your family may have to go through a costly and time-consuming guardianship proceeding. A wills and trust attorney can help you establish a legally valid POA, ensuring your financial and healthcare decisions are handled according to your wishes.

Contact a New York Wills and Trusts Attorney in Queens Today!

Planning your estate is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family’s future. The experienced wills trusts and estates lawyers at Bardizbanian & Associates, P.C. are here to help you create a comprehensive estate plan tailored to your needs. Call us today at 332-264-5169 or schedule a consultation online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wills and Trusts

What happens if I die without a will in New York?

If you pass away without a will, New York’s intestacy laws dictate how your assets are distributed. Typically, your closest relatives inherit, which may not align with your wishes. A wills trusts and estates lawyer can help you draft a will to ensure your assets go to the right people.

How can I update my will or trust?

Life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child may require updates to your estate plan. A wills and trust attorney can help you make legally valid modifications to reflect your current wishes.

What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will outlines asset distribution upon your passing and goes through probate, while a trust allows assets to be distributed privately and avoids probate. A Queens estate lawyer can help you determine which option suits your needs.

How long does probate take in New York?

The probate process can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the estate and any potential disputes. Establishing a trust with the help of a wills trusts and estates lawyer in Queens, NY can expedite the inheritance process.