Previously, this blog discussed undue influence and the effect it can have on estate planning and the execution of an estate. Although many New Yorkers think that their estate is safe from the influence of others, especially when trusted friends and family surround them, the truth of the matter is that those who are closest to an individual can sometimes be the most problematic.
This is one of the many reasons why sound estate planning is critical. By ensuring that wills and trusts are established in a way that is clear and leaves little doubt as to the testator’s intentions, an individual can make it that much more obvious when undue influence is being exerted, as the changes may be far out of line with the initial plan. Also, a competent estate plan can ensure that protections are in place to allow a trusted individual to make sound health and financial decisions in the event that an individual becomes incapacitated.
Many New Yorkers think they can turn to self-help books or websites and estate plan on their own. Even though this may be true to a certain extent, the fact of the matter is that it is far too risky to delve into this practice if you are unfamiliar with the law and how to use it to your advantage. Although you may think that you’re saving yourself a few bucks by skipping out on the services of an attorney, such an act may wind up costing your estate and your heirs and beneficiaries significantly.
At Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, we believe that those who take the time to speak to an experienced attorney will almost always see the benefit of legal representation. Our attorneys, armed with decades of experience, not only know how to draft legally valid estate planning documents that conform to their clients wishes, but they also know how to fight in court to protect their clients’ best interests. Our firm has a lot to offer New Yorkers, which is why we encourage people to reach out to us for more information about how we may be able to help them.