Experienced White Plains Estate Planning Lawyers

“Long-standing relationships of trust make us the modern equivalent of the family lawyer.” ― Attorney Marianne Sussman.

With a sound estate plan in place, you can rest assured that your wealth is protected. You may be able to take advantage of tax-saving opportunities, and your wealth is distributed in the manner of your choosing. You can appoint trusted family members or others to make critical decisions about your future medical treatment, and financial and business transactions. Without sound estate planning guidance, including advance health care directives, these critical goals could be left to chance.

At Marcus, Gould & Sussman, LLP, we understand the importance of sound, comprehensive estate planning. We can provide you with the guidance you need to make the right decisions as you establish estate planning documents in New York.

Our firm is known for its sophisticated estate planning and estate administration practice led by partner Marianne Sussman. Clients gain significant benefits from her depth of experience in tax issues and wealth preservation strategies. We are now handling complex estate planning for a second generation of clients from the same families.

An Estate Plan Tailored To Your Needs

Every client has unique estate planning needs. We do not apply a one-size-fits-all approach when establishing estate plans. We work personally with our clients to gain an understanding of their unique needs. After evaluating your legal and financial goals, our estate planning lawyers can guide you in establishing:

• Wills
• Trusts
• Powers of attorney
• Health care proxies and living wills

Sound estate planning can protect your assets and spare your loved ones from unnecessary expense and conflict in the future. We have the experience to establish an estate plan that protects your interests and the interests of your loved ones.

Guardianships

Sometimes, your loved ones need assistance in managing their business affairs and personal needs. They may be elderly and have become unable to care for themselves or their property, or they may be disabled of any age who cannot effectively manage their financial and personal matters. Attention to the particular circumstances and the person’s specific needs will assure safe and effective management of both personal and business matters. Attorney Marianne Sussman will develop with you the most effective and efficient plan, whether through a guardianship proceeding or alternative legal approaches.

New York Estate Planning FAQs

The complexity of New York estate planning laws can be daunting. To help ease the process, we have answered some of the most common questions from our clients.

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

If you pass away without a will in New York, your estate is subject to intestate succession laws. This means the state determines how your assets are distributed, typically to your closest relatives. Spouses and children are prioritized, but more distant relatives may inherit if no immediate family is found. However, this process can result in outcomes you may not have intended, which is why it is crucial to have a will in place.

How frequently should I update my estate plan?

It is recommended that you update your estate plan every three to five years or whenever you experience a significant life event like marriage, divorce, childbirth or the acquisition of substantial assets. Changes in the law or your personal financial situation also warrant a review of your estate plan. Keeping your estate plan current helps ensure that it reflects your wishes and protects your loved ones.

Who needs an estate plan?

While everyone can benefit from an estate plan, certain situations make it particularly crucial:

• Parents of minor children to designate guardians
• Blended families to help ensure all children are provided for
• Business owners to help ensure smooth succession or dissolution
• Owners of multiple properties or complex financial portfolios
• Those with specific charitable giving goals
• Individuals concerned about potential incapacity or long-term care needs

In these more complex situations, having a comprehensive estate plan can help ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, minimizing potential conflicts among heirs. Even if your estate is relatively simple, an estate plan can help avoid unnecessary legal proceedings and expenses for your loved ones.

How can the estate planning lawyers of Marcus, Gould & Sussman, LLP, assist?

We offer comprehensive legal help on a broad range of estate planning, trust administration and probate matters, including:

• Drafting wills and trusts tailored to state laws
• Creating powers of attorney and health care proxies
• Developing comprehensive estate plans
• Assisting with probate and estate administration in New York courts
• Handling trust administration
• Guiding tax planning strategies specific to the state

Our deep roots in the Westchester County legal community allow us to provide thoughtful, personalized guidance for all your legal needs.

Contact Our Westchester Estate Planning Law Firm

If you need legal guidance for drafting a will, establishing a trust or any other estate planning matter, our lawyers are here for you. Contact us today online or by telephone at 914-561-3249 to arrange a consultation with an experienced New York estate planning attorney.