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An estate plan is more than just a term for end-of-life planning. It encompasses many decisions that can affect you during your life as well. While all of us would like to live a long and healthy life, the unfortunate reality is that people in the United States have a higher chance of dying before … Read more
As a general rule, you do not need to be perfect or flawless to inherit under someone’s will. If someone includes you in their will, you are entitled to your bequest, even if other people or the Court do not agree with the decision. The court’s goal is to determine and carry out the intent … Read more
Much of estate planning is built around how best to use assets accumulated during life to benefit future generations and other dependents. However, what happens if one of your beneficiaries needs assets during your lifetime? The fact that your beneficiary will inherit $100,000 at some point in the future is little comfort in the face … Read more
Financial transactions happen every day all around the world. Interestingly, whether you’re buying a bottle of water or entering into a multi-million-dollar contract, many of the same basic rules apply. Among those rules are ones that govern what happens if you accidentally overpaid someone. It’s important to know what your obligations are when you pay … Read more
It’s not unusual for individuals who are left out of a family member’s or friend’s will to challenge the will on the grounds of undue influence or lack of testamentary capacity. However, as demonstrated in a recent decision of the New York Appellate Division, it can be difficult to prove your case. The decision highlights … Read more
Adults can provide instructions in their will regarding disposition of their remains or designate a person in their will who will make that decision. However, many people die without a will. In that situation, who decides what happens to your body when you die? Who Decides How Your Remains Are Disposed of When You Die … Read more
When developing your estate plan, it is important to provide your lawyer with information on all of your financial assets. This is because executing a will is not sufficient to dispose of certain assets, known as “non-probate assets.” Such assets are not controlled by the terms of your will but must be considered in your … Read more
Planning for death or incapacity can be an intimidating task for anyone. However, if you identify as an LGBTQIA+ individual, you may have additional considerations when it comes to protecting yourself, your partner and your family. As a result, it is important to consult with an attorney to discuss your wishes and help ensure that … Read more
You are probably not going to receive a nine-figure payment, whether by accident or on purpose. However, you can still learn some valuable lessons from a group of finance firms that did get $1 billion mistakenly. In a recent case in the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Second Circuit, the Court addressed whether the … Read more
If a loved one no longer has the capacity to take care of themselves or their finances, it may be time to seek guardianship. Under New York law, an interested person can file a petition to have a guardian appointed over either the ‘person’ or property of the incapacitated person. Once appointed, the guardian is … Read more