Wills vs. Trusts: Which Is Right for You?

Wills vs. Trusts: Which Is Right for You?

When planning for the distribution of your assets after death, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to create a will or a trust. Both documents play an essential role in estate planning, but they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Senior couple preparing estate plan with attorney

How to Plan for Incapacity: Legal Tools You Need

How to Plan for Incapacity: Legal Tools You Need

Planning for incapacity is a crucial aspect of estate planning that too many people overlook. While many individuals focus on distributing their assets after death, it’s just as important to have a plan in place for situations where you might become incapacitated—whether due to illness, injury, or aging.

Care Giver looking after old women

Avoiding Probate: Strategies for Effective Estate Planning

Avoiding Probate: Strategies for Effective Estate Planning

Probate is often a time-consuming and expensive process, one that many people wish to avoid when creating their estate plan. While it’s intended to check that assets are distributed according to the decedent's wishes, the process can take months or even years and incur significant costs.

Probate Law Book and Gavel

The Importance of Power of Attorney in Estate Planning

The Importance of Power of Attorney in Estate Planning

When people think about estate planning, they often focus on the distribution of assets, such as writing a will or setting up a trust. However, one critical element of a well-rounded estate plan is the power of attorney. Our firm, Goldstein Mauer PLLC, is here to help those in New York City understand the importance of this role.

Power of Attorney heading typed using typewriter

How to Choose the Right Executor for Your Estate

How to Choose the Right Executor for Your Estate

When planning your estate, one of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the right executor. This person will be responsible for carrying out your wishes, checking that your assets are distributed according to your will, and managing any outstanding obligations.

Old couples discussing estate plan with attorney