Estate Planning Blog - Bernard Law P.C.

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How To Avoid Probate In Both New York And Florida As A Snowbird

Many Long Island residents split their time between New York and Florida, enjoying the warm weather down south during the winter. These people are known as snowbirds. While having homes in both states can be enjoyable, it can also lead to legal issues after death if estate planning is not done. Without a plan, families […]

Posted on: March 16, 2026

Undue Influence In New York Estate Litigation Cases

Families often expect the estate administration process to reflect the decedent’s wishes. However, disputes may arise if relatives suspect a will or trust was created under improper pressure. Undue influence, a common allegation in estate litigation, involves exerting control over a vulnerable individual to alter their estate plan for another’s benefit. These cases can be […]

Posted on: March 15, 2026

Do I Need Two Estate Plans If I Live in New York and Florida?

Many Long Island residents, known as snowbirds, divide their time between New York and Florida. This dual residency raises important legal questions about wills, trusts, taxes, and property ownership. Clients in Hauppauge and Suffolk County often ask whether living part-time in Florida requires two separate estate plans. Most people do not need two separate estate […]

Posted on: March 14, 2026

Should Snowbirds Transfer Their Florida Home Into A Trust?

Many New Yorkers spend part of the year in Florida to enjoy the warmer weather. These "snowbirds" often own homes in both states. While this can be rewarding, it also brings up important estate planning questions. One question we often hear from our Suffolk County estate planning clients is whether they should put their Florida […]

Posted on: March 13, 2026

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When Should You Update Your Estate Plan in New York?

Creating an estate plan is essential for protecting your family, property, and legacy. However, it should not be considered a one-time task. As life circumstances, laws, and finances change, an outdated estate plan may no longer achieve your goals. In New York, failing to update your documents can result in probate complications, family disputes, or […]

Posted on: March 12, 2026

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Executor Responsibilities Under New York Law

Being named as an executor is an important legal duty. After someone passes away, the executor is responsible for following the instructions in the will and making sure the estate is handled correctly. In New York, this means following certain steps set by state law and the Surrogate’s Court. Executors need to collect and protect […]

Posted on: March 11, 2026

When Should An Executor Hire An Estate Attorney?

Serving as an executor in New York carries significant legal and financial responsibilities. Executors must manage the estate, protect assets, pay debts, and distribute property according to the will. While the role may seem straightforward, estate administration often involves complex legal requirements and strict deadlines. The Surrogate’s Court oversees probate, and executors must comply with […]

Posted on: March 10, 2026

Understanding The New York Estate Tax Cliff In 2026

As estate planning attorneys in Hauppauge, we often meet Suffolk County families who are surprised by how strict the New York estate tax system is. Many people think that if their estate is just over the exemption amount, they will only pay tax on the extra. However, New York law works differently. In 2026, the […]

Posted on: March 9, 2026

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Can A Trust Help Reduce Estate Taxes?

As estate planning attorneys serving families from our Hauppauge office, we are often asked whether creating a trust can reduce estate taxes. The answer depends on the type of trust, the structure of your assets, and whether you are subject to New York estate tax, federal estate tax, or both. Many Suffolk County families assume […]

Posted on: March 8, 2026

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