What You Need to Know About Wills And Probate Law

Probate or proof of a Will is a procedure whereby the New York Surrogate's Court determines the validity of a writing as a person's Will.  The Court must be satisfied that the document offered for probate was properly executed according to New York statutes and rules and reflects the decedent's desires. Typically, the probate process requires the filing of a petition with the Court and notice to appropriate members of the decedent's family and also to those named in the Will.  Wills and probate law can be complex.  Improperly prepared or unclear documents, Will contests and searches for missing heirs can result in delay and immense cost.  After the Court is satisfied with a Will's validity, a document called Letters Testamentary are issued by the Court to the Executor of the Will.  The Executor then has the authority to administer the decedent's estate.

Unfortunately, just having a Will won't automatically prevent a prolonged and painful probate process. Wills are challenged all the time. To be sure your Will is protected as much as possible against challenges, especially if your estate is large, you should consult with a qualified attorney who is mindful of New York laws and procedures governing estates.

I have 30 years of experience in both preparing Wills and estate plans for clients and representing clients in probate proceedings in the Surrogate's Courts throughout New York State.  I have sucessfully helped clients with the probate of Wills, litigating Will contests and with administering estates.

I graduated in the top 10% of my class at The New England School of Law in Boston and served on the “Law Review.”  My major accomplishments include my own law practice and serving on the staff of a NYC Councilperson and a NYS Assemblyman.  My practice prides itself on personal attention to client needs.

Please come in to my office for a free consultation and meet with me to discuss your options. To contact my office located in Manhattan call (212) 355-2575 or e-mail