Gone are the days when estates were just about houses and cars. Today, a big part of our lives exists online. Social media profiles, email accounts and even digital photos –are all considered digital assets, and just like your physical belongings, they need to be...
White Plains, New York Legal Blog
What is a real estate appraisal and when is it needed?
As a business owner, there may come a time when you need to let the property go. That's when appraisals become beneficial. However, many people associate appraisals primarily with selling a property. This isn't the only time it becomes useful, though. It is also...
Why you must update your estate plan when facing a divorce
Divorce is a complex process involving extreme emotions and multiple legal considerations. While it signals the end of your marriage, it also opens a new chapter in your life. And when major changes happen in your life, it is crucial to revisit your estate plan....
What to inspect when doing due diligence before buying property
Buying a property can be exciting, but this significant decision often requires thorough work and deliberation. Real estate purchases usually involve considerable money, so doing due diligence can be essential. This process is vital in detecting hidden hiccups,...
Can you step down as executor of an estate?
Not everyone can shoulder the heavy responsibilities of an executor when the time comes. Perhaps you’ve realized that the tasks exceed your capabilities or that your current situation may make it challenging to meet the demands of the role. Whether it is a health...
Why estate planning is essential for high-net-worth individuals
Two out of three adults in the United States have no established estate plan. This startling statistic can have severe implications for grieving families of individuals with high net worths. Suppose you have a significant amount of assets. In that case, estate...
What circumstances can get in the way of a real estate deal?
Real estate transactions often follow the same process, making deals seem predictable. However, some circumstances can be too severe to ignore, leading to the deal's disruption or cancellation. Even if the sale is already at closing, the buyer can face significant...
What are the will limitations in New York?
A will can be a vital component of your estate plan, especially if you want to solidify your wishes involving your estate after your death. However, this document can have limitations, depending on state law. Different restrictions or limitations in New York can...
Four common contingency clauses in transactional real estate
Buyers hold a certain power in real estate. One such power is the ability to include contingencies in a purchase contract. Understanding these contingency clauses not only provides a safety net but also increases their bargaining power in the transaction. In real...
What makes having an advance medical directive important?
Understandably, many New York residents value the peace of mind provided by advance medical directives. These directives let you detail medical-related instructions if you're incapacitated or communication is otherwise impossible. Having such control benefits you and...