Long Island Estate Planning Attorney
Estate planning is important for every adult, regardless of age or wealth. Contrary to popular belief, estate planning is not only for when you die, it also addresses who would be able to help you and how you would manage if you became incapacitated. If you were to get into an accident, and be unable to handle your own affairs, an estate plan previously prepared would enable the people that you have chosen to help you which third parties, such as the bank and hospital, would have to respect and honor. And certainly after you die, an estate plan will make sure that your assets go to the people you choose in the manner you want, controlled by the people you have chosen, and that your children are taken care of in the way you would wish.
While we are a nation of multi-taskers, many American adults put off planning for the future, using “not enough time” as one of the primary reasons for avoiding this particular task. Some people simply don’t want to think about dying, while others avoid estate planning because they aren’t sure they fully understand what they need to do. Others do not plan for the future because they do not feel they actually have an “estate” to plan for.
Many people do not think they need estate planning services because they are under the mistaken belief that only the very rich have estates. It is very important to get past these excuses for not planning for the future. Although we all want to believe we will be around for a very long time, accidents and tragedies unfortunately, occur every day.
It’s true that estate planning can make you think about the answers to some very uncomfortable questions, but try to imagine what would happen to your children—as well as your assets—if you were to die without making your wishes known. If you die without a will, New York State laws determine how and to whom your assets and property are distributed. This may be contrary to your wishes.
Finally, if you think estate planning is only for the wealthy, think again. If you own anything, even a car or a home, then you have an estate. As a nod to an old adage, when you fail to plan, you plan to fail. When you engage in comprehensive estate planning, you are ensuring that everything you have worked for in your life goes to those you choose.
View Our Guide: Estate Planning Through Life Stages
Esther Schwartz Zelmanovitz, PLLC, understands that having an estate plan prepared can be a daunting task that you would rather put off as long as possible. We also understand the chaos that can be left behind for your loved ones to deal with when you do not have an estate plan. Our attorneys are highly skilled and extremely experienced in helping New Yorkers prepare an estate plan which most closely meets their individual needs. We believe we can help you create an estate plan in the same way we have helped hundreds of satisfied clients across the state.
Estate Planning is not a “One Size Fits All”
Because every person and every situation is unique, there is no “one size fits all” document. An experienced New York estate planning attorney can assist you in determining which document will be the most beneficial for your particular situation. In addition to a Durable Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy, an attorney will review with you the benefits of having a will and possibly a trust. A will is a written document that tells others how you want your property distributed at the time of your death. A will also lets you appoint a guardian for your minor children. A living trust has some similarities to a will in that it directs the distribution of assets after your death, however, it has certain advantages, such as:
- Probate can be avoided;
- You can plan for your own incapacity;
- A trust helps protect your assets from the high cost of long-term care,
- Trust planning can help you minimize estate taxes; and
- Your financial affairs will not become public record.
Our Values, Your Peace of Mind The Principles That Define Our Firm
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Compassionate, Relationship-Driven Service
We believe every client deserves to be treated with dignity, patience, and genuine care. Our firm fosters long-term relationships, guiding families with warmth and empathy through emotionally sensitive matters like elder care, estate planning, and loss.
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Clear, Respectful Communication
We prioritize honest, prompt, and respectful communication. Whether answering questions or guiding you through complex decisions, we're responsive, dependable, and committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
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Serving with Integrity and Excellence
We hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical practice and professional excellence. Clients can count on us not just for our legal knowledge, skill and experience, but for honesty, transparency, and unwavering advocacy on their behalf.
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Tailored Legal Guidance for Every Client
No two clients are the same. We take the time to truly understand each client’s concerns, goals, and values, crafting customized legal solutions that reflect what matters most to them.
Asking Essential Estate Planning Questions
In addition to establishing a will, power of attorney, health care directives, and perhaps a trust, you will want to discuss other estate planning documents applicable to your particular situation with your New York estate planning attorney. You should consider asking your attorney about the following:
- How do I manage and limit estate, trust, and gift taxation?
- How does charitable giving fit into my estate planning?
- How do I incorporate pre-marital or post-marital agreements into my estate planning?
- What about retirement and long-term care planning?
- Who should be the trustee of my trust and agent under power of attorney?
- What responsibilities would my trustees and agents have? How soon after my death would my loved ones have access to my assets?
- How will my funeral and burial arrangements be paid?
What Should You Expect from Your New York Estate Planning Attorney?
Your New York estate planning attorney will set up an initial consultation with you in order to determine what you want to accomplish and will offer suggestions and information to help you make those decisions. Once you decide to retain the attorney for your estate planning, your wishes will be clarified, and the necessary documents will be drafted and reviewed with you.
Revisions will be made, if necessary, and the documents will be properly signed under the supervision of the attorney. If at any time, you want to make beneficiary changes or other changes to your estate planning documents, your New York estate planning attorney can help you do so. You might be amazed at the level of peace of mind you get knowing your loved ones are protected, and your assets are taken care of.