Trusts, Wills, Estate Planning & Probate
At Driscoll George LLP, we understand that planning for the future is one of the most important legal steps you can take to protect your family, assets, and legacy. Our estate planning attorneys provide personalized guidance to ensure that your wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable.
Last Will & Testament
A Last Will and Testament allows you to protect your family and ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. With a properly executed will, you can:
- Appoint an executor to manage and distribute your estate.
- Designate guardianship for minor children.
- Determine how your property is distributed to family members, friends, or charitable organizations.
- Minimize potential disputes and simplify the probate process for your loved ones.
Creating a Will in New York
A properly executed will must meet the following requirements in New York:
- You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
- The will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses, who must also sign the document.
- The will must be a physical, written document—New York does not recognize digital, audio, or video wills.
- In rare cases, oral (“nuncupative”) and handwritten (“holographic”) wills may be valid for active-duty military personnel in specific emergency situations.
At Driscoll George LLP, we ensure that your will is legally sound, properly executed, and tailored to your specific needs.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will?
If you pass away without a will in New York, your assets will be distributed according to the state’s intestacy laws. This means:
- Your spouse and children will inherit first.
- If you have no spouse or children, your closest relatives—such as parents, siblings, or extended family—will inherit.
- If no legal heirs can be found, the state of New York will claim your estate.
Without a will, your loved ones may face unnecessary legal complications and potential disputes over your assets. Estate planning ensures your wishes are honored and your family is protected.
Trusts & Estate Planning
Beyond a will, a comprehensive estate plan can provide additional protection for your assets and beneficiaries. Our firm assists with:
- Revocable & Irrevocable Trusts – Protecting your assets and avoiding probate.
- Power of Attorney – Appointing someone to handle financial and legal matters on your behalf.
- Health Care Proxies & Living Wills – Ensuring your medical wishes are followed if you’re unable to communicate.
- Special Needs & Charitable Trusts – Providing for loved ones with specific financial or medical needs.
Probate & Estate Administration
When a loved one passes away, navigating probate and estate administration can be overwhelming. Our attorneys assist executors and beneficiaries in handling:
- Probate filings & court representation
- Asset distribution & creditor claims
- Estate disputes & litigation
- Trust administration & fiduciary guidance
We work to make the process efficient, transparent, and as stress-free as possible for families.
Plan for the Future with Driscoll George LLP
Estate planning is a critical step in protecting your loved ones and your legacy. Whether you need to draft a will, establish a trust, or navigate the probate process, our experienced attorneys are here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and secure your future with confidence.