Port Jervis, NY · Where New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania meet
Wills & Trusts

Wills, trusts & estate planning

A plan that says who gets what, who’s in charge and who can make decisions if you can’t. Written for New York, New Jersey or Pennsylvania law.

What it is

In plain English

  • A will names who inherits, who manages your estate and who would care for minor children.
  • A revocable living trust can keep assets out of court, keep things private and make life easier for your family.
  • Most plans also include a power of attorney, health care proxy, living will and HIPAA form.
  • Simple tools like transfer-on-death deeds, life estate deeds and beneficiary designations can help too. We’ll explain which fit.
Who it’s for

Is this you?

Parents who need to name a guardian
Homeowners and retirees
Blended families
Owners of property in more than one state
Families caring for someone with special needs
Anyone with an old will that no longer fits
How it works

Step by step

1

Free consultation

In person, by phone or video. We listen first, then explain your options.

2

Gather the details

Family, property and accounts. Your fee is confirmed in writing.

3

Review your drafts

Read everything, ask questions, make changes.

4

Signing ceremony

At our office with witnesses and a notary, done the right way.

5

After signing

We help fund a trust and suggest a review after big life changes.

What to bring

Bring what you have

  • Names of the people you want to include
  • Who you’d pick as executor, trustee and guardian
  • Your home and other real estate (deeds if handy)
  • Bank, retirement and investment accounts
  • Life insurance and beneficiary forms
  • Any current will, trust or power of attorney

Missing something? Come anyway. Full printable checklist

Cost

What affects the cost

Will or trustA trust-based plan takes more drafting and setup.
Married or singleCouples may need separate trusts.
Property in another stateOut-of-state property can add steps.
Special situationsSpecial needs, blended families or a family business.

Your fee is confirmed in writing before work starts. Court, filing and recording fees are separate and listed up front. How fees work

Package

What’s included

Most families start here

Will Package

Adults and young families who want the basics done right.

  • Last will and testament
  • Durable power of attorney
  • Health care proxy and living will
  • HIPAA authorization
  • Signing ceremony with witnesses and notary

Free first consultationFee confirmed in writing before we start

Trust Package

Homeowners and families who want to keep assets out of court.

  • Revocable living trust
  • Pour-over will
  • Power of attorney and health care forms
  • Deed to move your home into the trust
  • Guidance funding accounts

Free first consultationCost depends on number of trusts and properties

Questions

Common questions

Can I just use an online will?

You can, but we don’t review or supervise the signing of do-it-yourself internet forms. A plan drafted for your situation avoids common and costly mistakes.

Do I need a trust?

Not everyone does. We’ll tell you honestly in your consultation.

What if I die without a will?

State law decides who inherits, and the court appoints someone to manage your estate. That may not match your wishes.

How often should I update my plan?

After a marriage, divorce, birth, death, move or big change in assets. Otherwise, a quick review every few years.

Next step

Ready when you are.

Call the office or send a short request. Someone from our Port Jervis office will get back to you.