A will or trust is only as good as the thinking behind it. We draft estate planning documents that say exactly what you mean, hold up under New York law, and can be carried out smoothly by the people you trust.
Wills
A will names who receives your property, who serves as executor, and who will be guardian of your minor children. It is the foundation of nearly every estate plan. We draft wills that address the details families often overlook: specific gifts of jewelry or heirlooms, what happens if a beneficiary dies before you, and how a family business should be handled.
A properly executed will also makes probate faster and far less likely to be contested. We supervise the signing ceremony ourselves so the formal requirements of New York law are met.
Trusts
A trust holds assets for the benefit of others, under rules you set. Depending on your goals, we design:
- Revocable living trusts that can keep assets out of probate, maintain privacy, and allow a smooth transition if you become incapacitated.
- Irrevocable trusts for estate tax planning, asset protection and life insurance.
- Trusts for children and grandchildren that release funds at the ages and for the purposes you choose, such as education, a first home or starting a business.
- Supplemental needs trusts that provide for a family member with a disability without jeopardizing public benefits.
Learn more: our New York Trust Series
Want to understand trusts before we meet? Our New York Trust Series explains, in plain language, what a trust is, the different types, how each kind of asset goes into a trust, and the most common mistakes.
Documents for your lifetime
A complete plan also protects you while you are alive. We prepare the New York statutory power of attorney, health care proxy and living will, so the people you choose, and not a court, can make financial and medical decisions if you cannot.
Our approach
We begin by listening. After learning about your family and assets, we recommend the simplest structure that achieves your goals. We don’t sell complexity you don’t need. We explain each document in English or Chinese, supervise execution, and give you a clear summary of your plan to keep with your records.