My Blog

Do I need probate in Queens if there’s a house in the decedent’s name? Usually, yes. New York’s small‑estate shortcut (voluntary administration) is for personal property only and cannot transfer a home owned solely by the decedent. If there’s no will, we file an administration; with a will, we file probate to appoint an executor…read more

What are the probate filing fees in Queens County, NY? Filing fees are set by SCPA §2402 and are the same statewide: $45 under $10,000; $75 for $10,000–< $20,000; $215 for $20,000–< $50,000; $280 for $50,000–< $100,000; $420 for $100,000–< $250,000; $625 for $250,000–< $500,000; and $1,250 at $500,000 and over. You pay the single…read more

Is this a “small estate” in New York, and do I need full probate? If your loved one died with $50,000 or less of personal property and no real estate owned in their name alone, you can use New York’s small‑estate path—voluntary administration—instead of full probate. The court filing fee is $1.00, and the Surrogate’s…read more

How long does probate take in Queens, NY? Most Queens probate matters I handle finish in about 7–9 months; simple small‑estate (voluntary administration) cases can wrap in weeks, while will contests or real‑estate sales can push the timeline past a year. I keep cases moving with precise filings, early outreach to heirs, and fast responses…read more

The two documents every Queens adult needs From our Forest Hills office at 118-21 Queens Boulevard, Suite 504, I help families create Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy documents that work when life gets stressful. Whether you live near Forest Hills Stadium, along Austin Street, or by the Kew Gardens LIRR stop, I’ll make…read more

The first three months—organized and stress‑reduced Once the judge signs the order, I stay with you through the practical setup. From our Forest Hills office at 118-21 Queens Boulevard, Suite 504—steps from Queens Borough Hall—I help you handle accounts, notices, and reporting so you start strong. Week 1: Set authority and safety Get your commissions…read more

Your Queens guardianship checklist Filing for guardianship feels big, but I break it into clear steps. From our Forest Hills office on Queens Boulevard, I handle the legal heavy lifting while you focus on your loved one. What to bring to our first meeting Photo ID, basic family tree, and contact info for siblings (Forest…read more

When a guardianship doesn’t feel right, let’s fix it If you believe a proposed guardianship is unnecessary or that the wrong person is being appointed, I’ll help you contest it the right way. From our office at 118-21 Queens Boulevard, Suite 504 in Forest Hills, I guide families through contested hearings at the Queens courthouses…read more

The two most common New York guardianships—explained simply Families call me confused about Article 81 and Article 17-A. I get it—the names sound alike, but they serve different needs. From my Forest Hills office on Queens Boulevard, I help you choose the right path and file in the correct Queens courthouse. Article 81: Flexible help…read more

When a loved one can’t manage safely, here’s how I move fast I’m Richard Cary Spivack, and when a crisis hits, my team and I act quickly to protect your parent or spouse. If you need emergency guardianship in Queens, we guide you step by step—often the same day you call. From our office at…read more