Our Blog - Surety Matters

  In New York State, the process of bringing the affairs of a “decedent” to closure is overseen by the county Surrogate’s Court. Asset distribution is determined by the will, when there is one, and…
Read Moreabout Probate in New York: The Surrogate’s Court

  Social engineering tactics in use by cybercriminals rely on us to be human, and thus vulnerable to emotions like excitement, fear or urgency. As a result, cybercriminals do not have to be wizards on…
Read Moreabout Hacking People? Social Engineering!

    As every retirement plan sponsor knows, careful stewardship of the savings of participants is not just the right thing to do: it is a fiduciary duty governed by ERISA. With more and more…
Read Moreabout Wronged Participants?

  That’s what juggling benefit plan regulations, existing and emerging often feels like to plan sponsors– are not they’re not alone. Assistant Secretary of Labor, who leads the Employee Benefit Security Administration (EBSA) describes efforts…
Read Moreabout Regulatory Jenga?

  Although courts have dismissed some of the excessive fee allegations against retirement plan fiduciaries, claims show no sign of stopping. In fact, ERISA experts point out that lawyers for plaintiffs, having learned from the…
Read Moreabout Flawed And Reckless Provider Selection?

  For many executors, the responsibility of selling off a family home and distributing the proceeds to the beneficiaries named in the will turns out to be the biggest and most stressful task undertaken. Estate…
Read Moreabout Executor? Tips for Selling A Home

  When a will is made, an executor is named to execute it. Typically, adult children or other close friends or relations are designated. Be sure, however, that whoever you name understands that real responsibilities…
Read Moreabout Tips for Naming An Executor

  As the name implies, an irrevocable trust is generally difficult to modify, once created. Despite this, irrevocable trusts can be a helpful way to protect assets as well as assure eligibility for public benefits,…
Read Moreabout Irrevocable Trust Problem? Decant!

  These are three different and important fiduciary roles. During estate planning, families will make the appropriate designations depending on their circumstances–and sometimes, all three might ultimately be needed. Read on to understand more about…
Read Moreabout Executor, Guardian, Conservator?