A New York attorney practicing in the fields of probate, estates, and trusts will be equipped to guide you through the New York Surrogate’s Court.  The passing of a friend or relative can often leave loved ones in a state of confusion about sorting out the decedent’s affairs.  You might wonder if probate administration is necessary, or what to do if you have nominated to serve as executor in the will.

The attorneys on this site can assist you with many of your probate, estate, trusts, and guardianship needs in New York State, including:

• Estate Planning: For New York residents, a New York estate planning lawyer can prepare the estate plan that is appropriate for your particular needs and wishes. See Can A Beneficiary Witness A Will In New York and New York Inheritance Laws With No Will.

• Probate Administration: If you are a beneficiary of a New York estate, nominated as an executor in a New York resident’s will, or have any probate administration issue, a New York probate attorney well versed in the practices and procedures of New York Surrogate’s Court can make the probate administration process as smooth as possible. See Who Can Petition For Probate In New York and Ancillary Probate In New York.

• Probate Litigation: In many situations, disputes arise over the validity of a will, the conduct of an executor, or the enforcement of beneficiary rights. A New York probate litigation attorney can make sure that crucial deadlines are met and objections made.  See How To Contest A Will In New York and No Contest Clauses in New York Wills.

• Trust Administration: If you are the trustee of a New York Trust and need guidance to ensure that you are appropriately administering the trust, a New York probate and trust attorney can help you fulfill your obligations as trustee.

• Trust Litigation: Just like wills, New York trusts are often challenged as invalid on the grounds of undue influence and lack of capacity.  Trustees are also accused of maladministration, and sometimes beneficiaries need their rights protected and pursued.

• Securing Surviving Spouse Rights: Surviving spouses in New York have elective share rights, intestate rights, and rights in exempt property. A New York probate attorney can make sure a surviving spouse gets all the rights to which he or she is entitled.  See Surviving Spouse Rights New York and Ric Ocasek’s Will: Abandonment As Bar To Elective Share.