While it may be difficult to consider your own passing, proactive estate planning offers some sense of control over what happens to your assets and legacy when that time comes. A last will and testament is the foundation of your estate.

At Pierro, Connor & Strauss, LLC, our attorneys craft wills that reflect your individual needs and goals. Estate planning can be a highly personal journey. That is why we treat every client with the utmost compassion and discretion. We know that peace of mind is priceless, and we strive to provide that with custom estate planning solutions.

Learn About the Will Planning Team at Pierro, Connor & Strauss

When it comes to estate planning and last will and testaments, whom you entrust with your most delicate information matters. Our firm’s will planning team is well-versed in New York estate law and can ensure your documents are accurate, valid and legally binding.

We know that every client is unique—and their estate plan should reflect that. We don’t use cookie-cutter templates. Our estate planning solutions are highly personalized. They can be updated and amended as your circumstances change and your needs and goals evolve.

We create clear and comprehensive wills that eliminate ambiguities and leave no questions unanswered. This streamlines the process for your loved ones and reduces any undue stress and confusion at what is likely to be a difficult time.

Albany Will Planning Team

Louis W. Pierro
Aaron E Connor
AARON E. CONNOR
Frank E. Hemming III
Patricia Whelan, Associate Attorney
Patricia T. Whelan

Contact us today for a FREE consultation

Couple working on their Will in Albany, NY

Important Considerations for Creating or Revising a Will

In New York, you must be 18 years of age and of sound mind to create a will. The person creating the will is known as the will “testator.” Your will must be written on paper and signed and dated by the testator in the presence of two witnesses who are 18 years of age or older. (Other states may permit the use of digital files for wills.)

If you, as the testator, want to change your will, you cannot simply cross out the old information and add your additions. Together, we must create a new written will and sign and submit it according to the same guidelines.

Let’s look at the key objectives of a will. Your will can:

  • Name a guardian to care for your minor children.
  • Name an executor to oversee the distribution of your property.
  • Name the people and/or organizations who should receive your property upon your passing.

Keep in mind that you don’t need to be elderly or wealthy to have a will. A last will and testament is essential for every adult. It empowers you to decide what will happen to your possessions and your family if you should die.

Our Suite of Planning Services

A will is just one of many components of a comprehensive estate plan. A trust is another powerful estate-planning tool that allows you (the trustor) to give another party (the trustee) the right and responsibility to hold and manage assets for the beneficiary.

We often recommend them because they allow your heirs to avoid the prolonged and costly probate process. Some trusts can reduce the trustor’s taxable assets, allowing their beneficiary to retain a bigger portion of these funds. Some trusts offer flexibility and can be amended during your lifetime, while others cannot.

Because there are many kinds of trusts, each with its own pros and cons, the best way to determine what is right for you is to meet with our Albany will lawyers at Pierro, Connor & Strauss. Together we’ll explore wills, trusts, and other estate planning resources to create a plan that aligns with your goals and values.

Contact Our Albany Will Lawyers Today

Consultations are always comprehensive and confidential. Call or connect online to schedule yours today. We are proud to assist clients in Albany and the surrounding areas, and across the state of New York.

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Life Happens…..Are You Prepared?

Contact us today for a FREE consultation and we’ll be happy to help take the worry out of tomorrow so you can live today.