Personal attention. Careful preparation.
Estate Planning
Estate planning starts with the people who matter to you. Who should carry out your wishes? Who should help if you cannot make decisions? What will your family need to know? Our family-owned Ithaca firm helps you consider these questions and discuss a plan suited to your circumstances.
Put your wishes into a will
A will records directions for property at death and can name an executor and nominate a guardian for children. New York requires formalities for a valid will. The document should reflect your family circumstances and the responsibilities you want trusted people to undertake.
New York Courts: what a will doesDiscuss whether a trust fits your goals
Trust planning is a conversation about purpose, control, beneficiaries, and administration—not a one-size-fits-all choice. Bring questions about how and when property should benefit loved ones, who would manage it, and what ongoing responsibilities a proposed arrangement would create. Any tax or public-benefit concerns require individualized review.
Plan for decisions during your lifetime
A power of attorney can authorize a chosen agent to handle financial matters within its terms. A health care proxy appoints someone to make health care decisions when you cannot. These tools serve different purposes and should be considered alongside, rather than replaced by, a will.
New York Courts: planning alternatives to guardianshipKeep your plan connected to your life
An organized review starts with your documents, assets, beneficiary information, and priorities. Marriage, divorce, a new child, a death in the family, a move, or a business change may be a reason to revisit the plan. Ask how to store original documents and how the people you appoint will locate them when needed.
Questions before your consultation
Is estate planning only for wealthy families?
No. Choosing decision-makers and expressing wishes can matter at many stages of life. The right scope of planning depends on your circumstances, not simply the size of an estate.
Do I need to decide on a trust before contacting you?
No. Start with your goals, concerns, and existing documents. A conversation can help identify which planning options deserve consideration and what additional information is needed.
General information, not legal advice. The applicable law and your individual circumstances control. An inquiry does not create an attorney-client relationship.