When Can a Will Be Contested?
Just as family conflicts and miscommunications can be a challenge in life, so too can they create difficulties upon death. Read on for practical, expert advice for those who may feel they have been slighted…
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What’s a Trustee To Do: Facing Volatile Markets
A trustee must follow the prudent investor rule in managing the assets of a trust. Keep in mind: this is a process-based standard—not a performance-based one. Investing Trust Assets Volatile markets present unique challenges to…
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Protecting the Vulnerable: Fiduciary Duties and Bonds Explained
Protecting the Vulnerable: Fiduciary Duties and Bonds Explained When someone cannot make sound decisions for themselves, a court can appoint a fiduciary to do so. Often, courts require fiduciary bonds to protect “the ward.” Safeguarding…
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Duty-Bound to Beneficiaries: Insights for Executors and Trustees
What happens when an estate or trust plan has been set up to continue the operations of a business beyond the owner’s death—but the business ultimately does not provide value to the beneficiaries? Prioritizing the…
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Understanding Intestate Succession and Fiduciary Bonds
When a person dies without a will, probate courts rely on intestate succession laws to distribute the assets to heirs. Court-ordered fiduciary bonds can become important in this process. Who Gets What? If there is…
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Understanding Probate Court and Probate Bonds
Many people have their first—and sometimes only—experience with the law in a probate court. Here is what to anticipate if you find yourself there—and in need of a probate bond as well. What Is Probate…
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Understanding Estates and Estate Bonds: Advice for Families
Understanding Estates and Estate Bonds: Advice for Families “You can’t take it with you”—is frequently cautioned among family and friends. Yet, many of us can’t seem to bring ourselves to plan ahead for our valuables….
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What You Need to Know About New York Surrogate’s Court Bonds
Individuals chosen to be fiduciaries, administrators, and executors within the Empire State are typically required to post a surety bond. Surrogate’s courts require fiduciaries to obtain such a bond to safeguard the interests and affairs of the…
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COVID-19 Places Significant Importance on Estate Planning
As the coronavirus pandemic reshapes our world, we have to correctly prepare for the future and its uncertainty. This includes placing estate planning at the top of your priority list. In the midst of this…
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