Will The purpose of a will is to set down the manner and disposition of an individual's assets and his or her estate, at the time of his or her death. A will has no effect during a person's lifetime. It only deals with the disposition of the person's assets at the time of death. The will should be crafted by an experienced estate planning lawyer. … [Read more...]
Amending Irrevocable Trusts
Irrevocable trusts are an invaluable estate planning resource. However, due to tax changes (fiscal cliff) and other issues, irrevocable trusts with an estate plan in mind, need to be changed related to subsequent modifications of estate tax laws. Can irrevocable trusts be amended? The answer to that is yes, in certain circumstances. New York … [Read more...]
Why Have an Irrevocable Trust?
Wills, revocable trusts, and irrevocable trusts are all estate planning devices. Revocable trusts are a type of trust that can be changed, modified, or revoked at anytime. This type of trust allows you to change your mind with regard to all aspects of the terms of the trust. These trusts are very flexible. Uses of a revocable trust: 1. … [Read more...]
Power of Attorney Laws Changing in New York
Spurred on by financial abuse of the elderly, New York will change its laws with regard to executing a valid "Power of Attorney" ("POA") document. The new law will be effective September 1, 2009, although POAs executed before that date in compliance with the old law will still be valid. This development makes it especially important to use an … [Read more...]