When it comes to sharing information about your estate plan with loved ones, it’s a decision that requires careful consideration of both the benefits and potential drawbacks. Advantages of Sharing Estate Plan Information: Transparency: Sharing details ensures everyone knows what to expect, reducing confusion and conflict later. Understanding of Wishes: Loved ones will have a…
Did you know that in New York once your child turns 18 you are no longer legally entitled to know anything about them? Their school can’t talk to you, even if you are paying for their education. Their health care providers can’t talk to you, even though you are their parent, and even if they…
In the past, probate in New York was a quick process, with Letters Testamentary typically issued within a few months. However, the pandemic has changed that. The Surrogate’s Courts are now facing staffing shortages and a significant backlog, causing delays of six months to a year. What does this mean for you and your heirs?…
Choosing the right executor for your estate is a critical decision that significantly impacts your asset distribution after your passing. An executor is responsible for managing your estate, settling debts and distributing assets to beneficiaries. This blog post offers valuable tips to aid in your selection process. Prioritize Trustworthiness and Reliability Selecting someone trustworthy and…
In this episode of Mastering Your Financial Life, Judy Heft interviews Marci Goldfarb, Senior Counsel at Schwartz Ettenger. Marci has been practicing law for over 30 years and specializes in all aspects of Estate Planning, including preparation of Wills and Trusts, probate proceedings, and estate and trust administration. Watch the episode below to learn about:…
Parents who have children battling addiction or struggling with mental illness are often too consumed with the daily care and concern for their child to give consideration to the future and how their son or daughter will be cared for when they are gone, or whether their child will be able to manage the assets…
Are you recently widowed, or do you have a close friend or relative who has lost a spouse? During such a difficult time, with so much to take care of, panic can set in as you begin navigating the probate process – don’t panic, the professionals at Schwartz Ettenger can help! Not everyone needs to…
Did you know that you should never unstaple an original Last Will and Testament? Additional staple holes, or no staples at all, could indicate that pages were removed, added or changed since the time the Will was executed, all of which could be problematic in the event of a Will contest. If you’ve already unstapled…
