Our Blog - Surety Matters

  Plastic superhero figurines? Albums? Comic books? Tea cups? Matchbox cars? Pokemon? Coin purses? Hmmm….When dear friends or loved ones have unique and niche collections, chances are good that the rest of us might not…
Read Moreabout Imagine Inheriting Thousands Of…

  Appointing a trustee to administer any trust is a big deal, but extra diligence is important when it comes to special needs trusts (SNTs). A trustee must be extraordinarily thoughtful when making decisions for…
Read Moreabout SNT: Duties of The Trustee

  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

  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?

  After the expenses of an estate are paid, and the assets specified in wills and trusts distributed, what remains unaccounted for is referred to as the residuary estate.  Books, furniture, jewelry, and other household…
Read Moreabout Residuary Estate?

  Unlike those running and hiding games we play in our youth, illness, capacity declines and death are real. Rather than avoiding them, estate planning is best–for the good of our own selves and everyone…
Read Moreabout Ready or Not…