When court involvement is required, we guide executors and administrators through every stage of the probate or administration process.

Our services include:

• Preparing and filing petitions and supporting court documents to obtain letters for probate, administration and small estate proceedings

• Obtaining a taxpayer identification number (EIN) for the estate

• Counseling on the collection, marshaling and management of estate assets

• Assisting with creditor claims and advising on tax reporting

• Obtaining releases of lien for any New York real property or cooperative apartment

• Preparing informal accountings and receipt/releases

• Assisting with distribution of estate assets to beneficiaries

Whether the estate is straightforward or involves contested issues, we provide practical advice throughout the process.

Serving as a trustee carries significant legal and fiduciary responsibilities. We advise trustees throughout the administration process, helping them understand and fulfill their obligations while honoring the grantor’s wishes.

Our trust administration services include:

• Reviewing the trust and other relevant estate planning documents

• Assisting with trust funding and the management of trust assets

• Preparing trustee accountings and related documentation

• Advising on tax reporting

• Preparing releases and receipts

• Coordinating with accountants, appraisers, financial advisors, real estate counsel, and other professionals, as appropriate

• Assisting with distributions of trust assets to beneficiaries

• Providing ongoing guidance to trustees throughout the administration of the trust

Beneficiaries have important legal rights and interests, but they may not always be familiar with the estate or trust administration process or the information to which they are entitled.

We represent beneficiaries throughout the administration process, helping them:

• Understand their rights and interests under a will or trust

• Review fiduciary actions, accountings, and other aspects of the administration

• Obtain information and documentation regarding the administration of an estate or trust

• Address and resolve disputes when appropriate

• Protect their interests and ensure that the administration is carried out properly

• Whenever possible, we seek practical and cost-effective solutions that address our clients’ concerns while preserving family relationships.

Being named as an executor, trustee, or agent under a power of attorney is an honor—but it also comes with significant legal responsibilities.

We serve as trusted legal counsel to fiduciaries, providing advice on:

• Fiduciary duties and responsibilities

• Asset collection and management

• Distribution strategies

• Recordkeeping and accountings

• Tax and reporting obligations

• Risk management and liability avoidance

• Communication with beneficiaries

Whether you need ongoing legal counsel or assistance with a specific issue, we help fiduciaries fulfill their responsibilities with confidence.

We work closely with accountants, appraisers, financial advisors, real estate counsel and other professionals to coordinate tax filings, asset transfers, and post-death planning opportunities.

Important planning opportunities often arise after a loved one's passing. We advise fiduciaries and beneficiaries regarding disclaimers, trust funding, tax elections, beneficiary distributions, and other strategies that may preserve flexibility and reduce future tax burdens.

For clients who own property in multiple states or have international assets, we coordinate with local counsel to streamline administration and minimize unnecessary delays.