Manhattan Estate Planning Lawyers - New York
We help you achieve a peace of mind
and a better future.

Premiere Manhattan Estate Planning Lawyers Helping You Foster A Better Future

No one can be prepared for every twist and turn life brings. But it’s possible to set yourself up for success, no matter what lies ahead. Estate planning is a key component to protecting the future!

At the Law Offices of Vlad Portnoy P.C., we focus on estate planning to help our valued clients protect their families and make sure their wishes are carried out regardless of what life throws at them. With sound legal guidance from our experienced Manhattan estate planning attorneys, you can prepare for the future with confidence knowing your assets have been handled with care and your family’s best interests remain secure in the event something unexpected happens.

We have foresight for the future. No matter the size of your estate, we help those from all walks of life plan ahead. Our team understands that estate planning can be an intimidating process, and we strive to guide you every step of the way so that your needs are met. At Law Offices of Vlad Portnoy P.C., we utilize our experience in wills, trusts, probate administration, and more to make sure your estate is properly managed and administered according to your wishes. Get in touch with us today at 516-518-8586 for a initial consultation.

TOP Manhattan &
New York City Estate Planning, Probate and Elder Law Attorney
Lack of proper estate planning may have devastating effects on your life and the lives of your loved ones.
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What Goes Into an Effective Estate Plan?

Ideally, estate planning should start now and be revisited regularly. It’s important to have a comprehensive plan in place that addresses your goals, values and wishes so you can set up an airtight future for yourself and your family members.

At the Law Offices of Vlad Portnoy P.C., we help our clients create flexible estate plans that accommodate their wishes today while also allowing them the flexibility to adjust these plans in the event something unforeseen arises. Some elements commonly found in effective estate plans include:

  • Wills
  • Trusts
  • Powers of attorney
  • Health care directives

When you decide it’s time to plan for the future, trust in the experienced estate planning attorneys at Law Offices of Vlad Portnoy P.C. We take an overarching and detailed approach to ensure that all your needs are taken into consideration, and nothing is overlooked. Get in touch with us today for an initial consultation!

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What Do Most People Overlook When Estate Planning?

Estate planning is a vital process for preserving your legacy and ensuring your loved ones are provided for after your passing. Unfortunately, many people overlook important components when they start the estate planning process. One of these key elements is to ensure you have an up-to-date will in place that accounts for all potential scenarios should something happen to you or other family members. A comprehensive will helps provide clear direction on how assets should be allocated following death and can also help protect against disputes among beneficiaries. It’s crucial to review any changes in circumstances such as marriage, divorce, remarriage, or the birth of children since these may affect how assets are distributed.

Another aspect of estate planning that is overlooked is the appointment of a guardian for any minor children. Without making your wishes clear, the courts will be forced to decide who is best suited to raise your children should something happen to you or another parent. With over a decade of experience, attorney Vlad Portnoy and his team will carefully review your estate plan, revising when needed and providing straightforward advice!

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What Does an Experienced Estate Planning Lawyer Do?

An experienced estate planning lawyer from our Manhattan estate planning law firm can help you create a plan for the future that aids and protects your estate and loved ones. Our team can help you analyze your finances, develop an estate plan that reflects your wishes, and handle legal documents related to setting up trusts or wills.

The Law Offices of Vlad Portnoy P.C. will review all of the assets you own, take inventory, and advise you on the best way to distribute them after your death. This includes analyzing properties, investments, bank accounts, insurance policies, and other relevant documents. Our team can also explain how estate taxes could affect your plan in the end. There are no gaps when it comes to estate planning with our team. We are thorough, thoughtful, and determined throughout the process. For compassionate and honest service, work with us to preserve your future.

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Can’t I Create an Estate Plan on My Own?

While it may be possible to create an estate plan on your own, it is not always the right choice to make. Estate planning can involve complicated legal documents and require technical knowledge of estate planning and probate law. An experienced estate planning attorney from our law firm can make sure your paperwork is properly completed and filed according to state laws. Additionally, our team will also be able to provide valuable advice about how best to structure your estate in order to maximize its value for yourself and your beneficiaries.

While hiring an estate planning lawyer has tremendous benefits, we don’t try to upsell you at every turn. Not every estate needs every legal document out there to ensure a protected future. We will advise you honestly – even if that means telling you there may be a cheaper but still effective way to plan your estate. We do this because we actually care about you and not our bottom line. When we say we work in your best interests, we truly mean it. Put your trust in us to guide you through the estate planning process with ease.

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Trust the Law Offices of Vlad Portnoy P.C. with Your Future Today!

Planning for the future while dealing with daily life can be overwhelming. When it comes to estate planning, you need someone who understands the complexities and nuances of estate planning law from the inside and out. Estate planning isn’t just about writing a will – it encompasses the planning and maintenance of all aspects of your financial life, from Medicaid planning to guardianship. It’s not an easy process, and it can be incredibly stressful to try to juggle all these concerns in addition to taking care of everything else that needs tending to in life. But that’s why we’re here – whenever you need us.

Our New York City law office is conveniently located just across from New York Penn Station at the corner of 34th Street and 7th Avenue, just 1 mile from the Grand Central, the Rockefeller Center, less than 2 miles from Hudson River Park, less than 1 mile away from the Empire State Building, and only 2 miles away from legendary Central Park. LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is just 9 miles from our law office. Our New Jersey office is just a few blocks from the Bergen County Justice Center in Hackensack, New Jersey. Don’t let time stop you from planning ahead for a better tomorrow – count on us to preserve and protect your estate for years to come. Call us today at 516-518-8586 for your estate planning consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions?
What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and distribution of your assets during your lifetime and after your death. It typically involves creating legal documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are taken care of. Estate planning also helps minimize taxes, court costs, and potential conflicts among family members. By having a well-thought-out plan in place, you can make sure that your estate is handled according to your desires and provides financial security for your beneficiaries.

What Types Of Wills Are There?

There are mainly three types of wills: simple wills, testamentary trust wills, and joint wills. Simple wills outline the distribution of assets, name an executor, and may include guardianship provisions for minor children. Testamentary trust wills create a trust upon the testator’s death to manage assets on behalf of beneficiaries, providing more control over asset distribution and potentially reducing estate taxes. Joint wills are created by two people, usually spouses, outlining their combined wishes for asset distribution. However, joint wills are less flexible than separate wills and may cause complications if one spouse wishes to make changes after the other’s death.

What Types Of Trusts Are There?

There are several types of trusts, each serving different purposes in estate planning. Revocable living trusts can be changed or terminated during the grantor’s lifetime and allow for the management and distribution of assets without going through probate. Irrevocable trusts cannot be changed once established and can provide significant estate tax benefits, as well as protect assets from creditors. Testamentary trusts are created upon the grantor’s death through a will, often used to manage assets for minors or beneficiaries with special needs. Other types of trusts include charitable trusts, special needs trusts, and life insurance trusts.

What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process that takes place after a person’s death to validate their will, settle debts, and distribute assets according to the will or state law. The executor named in the will, or an administrator appointed by the court if there is no will, oversees the process. Probate can be time-consuming, often taking several months or longer, and expensive due to court fees and potential attorney costs. Many people use estate planning tools like trusts and beneficiary designations to avoid or minimize the probate process, making it easier for their loved ones to access and manage their assets.

What Happens If There Is No Will In Place When I Die?

If you die without a will, your assets will be distributed according to your state’s intestacy laws. This typically means that your closest relatives, such as your spouse and children, will inherit your estate. However, this may not align with your wishes, especially if you have a blended family, want to provide for non-relatives, or have specific bequests in mind. Dying without a will can also lead to delays and additional expenses during the probate process. Creating a will is essential to ensuring your wishes are followed and providing clarity and guidance for your loved ones.

What Is A Power Of Attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes someone, called the agent, to act on your behalf in financial, medical, or other matters if you become incapacitated. There are different types of powers of attorney, each designed for specific situations. A durable power of attorney remains in effect even if you become incapacitated, while a springing power of attorney only takes effect upon your incapacity. A healthcare power of attorney grants the agent authority to make medical decisions on your behalf. Having a power of attorney in place ensures that someone you trust can make important decisions for you when you are unable to do so yourself.

When Should I Start Estate Planning?

It’s never too early to start estate planning. Life events like marriage, having children, or acquiring significant assets are good times to begin. However, even if you’re single and have few assets, creating a basic will and power of attorney can provide peace of mind and ensure your wishes are followed. As your circumstances change, you should regularly review and update your estate plan to ensure it remains aligned with your current needs and desires. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney can help you with any estate matter that addresses your unique situation and protects your loved ones.

Attorney Vlad Portnoy
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