Estate Planning Blog - Bernard Law P.C.

Own Property in Florida? What Long Island Residents Should Fix in Their Estate Plan Now

Many Long Island residents own second homes in Florida, often spending part of the year there. However, owning property in another state adds legal complexity to your estate plan. We frequently meet clients in Hauppauge and Suffolk County who assume their New York will or trust automatically governs their Florida property. This misconception can result […]

Posted on: March 19, 2026

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Can Gifting Reduce My New York Estate Tax?

For many families in New York, estate taxes are a serious concern when planning how wealth will pass to the next generation. If your assets exceed the New York estate tax exemption, a significant portion of your estate may be subject to tax after death. Many clients ask whether giving money or property away during […]

Posted on: March 18, 2026

Irrevocable Trusts And The New York Estate Tax: What You Should Know

Estate planning in New York means thinking carefully about taxes, protecting your assets, and making sure your wealth goes to your loved ones. An irrevocable trust is one of the key tools for this. Many families are surprised by how New York’s estate tax works and how easily an estate can be taxed without the […]

Posted on: March 17, 2026

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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

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