Protecting Your Legacy
Wills & Trusts Lawyer in Queens, NY
Planning for the future means more than writing a document, it means protecting your family, your assets, and your peace of mind.
What Are Wills & Trusts?
Wills and trusts are the foundation of most estate plans:
- Wills: Direct how property is distributed, appoint guardians for children, and ensure your wishes are honored after your passing.
- Trusts: Allow assets to be managed outside of probate, protect your privacy, and give you control over when and how beneficiaries receive inheritances.
Without a clear estate plan, the courts — not you — decide what happens to your property, your children, and even your pets. Wills and trusts put you in control and protect your legacy.
When Should I Update My Will or Trust?
Life changes often mean your estate plan needs an update. You should review your documents after:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Significant financial changes
- Buying or selling real estate
- Shifts in charitable or philanthropic interests
- Changes in physical, mental, and medical conditions.
We prepare new wills or valid codicils (updates) so your plan always reflects your current wishes.
Why Hire a Wills & Trusts Lawyer?
DIY documents and online templates often lead to costly mistakes. With experienced legal guidance, you can ensure:
Wills & Trust Disputes
Unfortunately, wills and trusts are sometimes challenged by heirs or beneficiaries. Richard Cary Spivack provides calm, assertive representation in:
- Defending Valid Wills against challenges
- Contesting Invalid Wills or Trusts when fraud, undue influence, or incapacity is suspected
- Mediating Family Disputes to avoid costly litigation and preserve family harmony
Our goal: protect your wishes, defend your legacy, and keep family conflict to a minimum.
You ask, we answer
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both a will and a trust?
Not always, but many families benefit from both. Wills handle guardianship and residual property, while trusts avoid probate and provide greater control.
Can a trust help avoid probate?
Yes. Properly funded trusts allow assets to pass directly to beneficiaries without court involvement.
What happens if I die without a will?
New York intestacy laws decide who inherits, which may not match your wishes. Having a will ensures your choices are respected.