The Value Of Preparedness And Quality Legal Help Working with an experienced guide can make an enormous difference when navigating the probate process, and at Hyl Conte Law, PLLC we’ve seen firsthand how much smoother things go when clients understand what to expect from the start. What You Need To Know Before Starting Probate Probate takes time, likely longer than you’ll expect. That’s why patience is essential. Nothing moves as quickly or as smoothly as you think it should, and the process is far more rigid and procedural than most people realize. Even if the will clearly states what the decedent wanted, you can’t simply…Read More
Assets Subject To Probate Generally, only assets held solely in your name, with no joint owner and no beneficiary designation, are subject to probate. These are the assets that legally require court oversight to determine who inherits them and to authorize someone to handle them. This includes: Individually owned bank or investment accounts without beneficiaries Real estate held solely in your name Personal property, from vehicles to jewelry, collectibles, and household items, that are not owned jointly However, several types of assets bypass probate entirely. For example, real estate with special deed planning, such as life estate deeds or New York’s newer transfer-on-death (TOD) deeds,…Read More
In today’s world, our lives are deeply connected to the digital space, from storing photos on the cloud to email, online banking, and cryptocurrency. Yet many people overlook these items when creating an estate plan. That’s why digital assets estate planning in New York is no longer optional. It’s an essential part of protecting your legacy and ensuring loved ones can access important accounts and memories after you’re gone. In this article, we’ll cover… What types of data count as “digital assets”. Whether you can name someone to handle these accounts after you’re gone. The best ways to properly inventory and protect your digital assets.…Read More
What Exactly Is Probate, And Why Does It Matter In New York? The probate process in New York is the means through which a person’s Last Will and Testament is validated by the court, and the executor named in that will is officially appointed. It’s a legal safeguard, not just a formality. Probate ensures the will is legitimate, that no one was coerced or taken advantage of, and that the right people are notified and given the opportunity to contest it if something seems off. A common misconception is that having a will avoids probate. In fact, it’s the opposite: your will is the document…Read More
The holidays can be a time of warmth, connection, and reflection, and sometimes, the perfect opportunity to have meaningful conversations about the future. For adult children, that often includes discussing estate planning for aging parents in New York. While these topics can feel uncomfortable, the goal shouldn’t be control. It should come from a place of love, protection, and peace of mind. In this article, we’ll explore… How to begin discussing estate planning thoughtfully and respectfully. The essential documents your older parents should have in place. Signs that your parents may need legal guidance sooner rather than later. How Can I Start Estate Planning Discussions…Read More
It’s always time for seniors in New York to take care of their health, but now it’s especially time to look at their Medicare options. Medicare open enrollment 2025 in New York gives individuals the chance to review their coverage, make changes if needed, and ensure their health and long-term care plans still fit their evolving needs. In this article, we’ll discuss… What Medicare open enrollment means. How it differs from Medicaid in terms of paying for care post-retirement. How an attorney can help you incorporate long-term care planning into your estate plans. What Is Medicare Open Enrollment In Fall 2025 And Why Is It…Read More
When someone accepts the role of trustee in New York, they take on a legal and ethical duty to manage assets responsibly and in the best interests of the trust’s beneficiaries. But what happens when things go wrong? Whether it's a matter of poor communication or outright misconduct, trustee mismanagement is more common than many people realize, and the consequences can be severe. In this article, we break down… How beneficiaries can spot red flags in trust management. What legal actions are available to hold trustees accountable. How proactive planning (with the help of an estate attorney) can prevent conflict before it escalates. How Can…Read More
Choosing a trustee is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make when setting up an estate plan. A trustee doesn’t just manage money. They manage relationships, legal obligations, and long-term family harmony. In this article, we explore… The legal responsibilities of trustees. The risks and benefits of choosing friends or family to oversee a trust. Whether a professional trustee might be the right fit. What Is The Legal Role And Responsibility Of A Trustee In New York Estate Plans? In New York, a trustee is a fiduciary, which means they’re legally obligated to act in the best financial interests of the trust’s beneficiaries. They…Read More
Probate can be one of the most time-consuming and costly legal processes that families face after the death of a loved one. In New York, especially since COVID, the probate system on Long Island is known for its delays, paperwork, and legal fees. In this article, we’ll unpack… What the probate process involves and how long it may take. Which assets are subject to probate and which are not. How families can save themselves from stress, expenses, and potential legal battles. What Is Probate, And Why Do So Many Families Try To Avoid It? Probate is the legal process used to distribute a deceased person’s…Read More
In this article, you can discover… Whether online wills and estate planning forms are legally valid in New York. How DIY estate planning can cause serious problems for your beneficiaries. Why an experienced estate planning lawyer is a far wiser choice than online tools. Are Online Wills Legally Valid In New York? New York does not yet recognize fully electronic wills as valid. Your will must be on a physical piece of paper, must be typed and not handwritten, and must be signed by you (the testator) in the presence of two witnesses. Keep in mind that the witnesses can not also be beneficiaries; they…Read More
