Top Buffalo, NY Estate Planning Lawyers Near You
Eric Vallone Is An Experienced Estate Planning Attorney. Don’t Go It Alone. Call Eric Vallone.
6409 Dysinger Rd., Lockport, NY 14094
Practical Estate Planning legal help. Representing Buffalo, New York clients.
Free Consultation
2560 Walden Ave, Suite 104, Cheektowaga, NY 14225
Select a local Buffalo, New York firm for diligent Estate Planning representation.
Free Consultation
121 Hamburg St, East Aurora, NY 14052
Hall Ricketts Gurbacki, P.C. helps clients in the Buffalo area handle cases involving Estate Planning.
5488 Sheridan Drive, Suite 500, Buffalo, NY 14221
Other Nearby Offices
Contact Tully Rinckey PLLC in Buffalo, New York for experienced legal assistance in Estate Planning.
Se Habla Español
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822 Convention Tower, 43 Court St, Buffalo, NY 14202
350 Main St., Main Place Tower, Suite 2210, Buffalo, NY 14202
455 Cayuga Rd, Suite 600, Buffalo, NY 14225-1300
327 Niagara St, Suite #1, Buffalo, NY 14201
37 Franklin Street, Suite 800, Buffalo, NY 14202
40 Fountain Plaza, Suite 500, Buffalo, NY 14202
6024 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14221
Key Center at Fountain Plaza, 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1230, Buffalo, NY 14202
4476 Main Street, Suite 108, Amherst, NY 14226
1127 Wehrle Dr, Suite 100, Williamsville, NY 14221
701 Seneca Street, Suite 750, Buffalo, NY 14210
76 West Avenue, Lockport, NY 14094
4819 S Park Ave, Hamburg, NY 14075
155 Summer Street, Buffalo, NY 14222
424 Main St, Suite 1300, Buffalo, NY 14202
2813 Wehrle Drive, Suite 11, Buffalo, NY 14221
5888 Main Street, Suite 100, Williamsville, NY 14221
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1000, Buffalo, NY 14202
5070 Broadway, Depew, NY 14043
1400 Sweet Home Road, Suite #9, Buffalo, NY 14228
The Guaranty Building, Suite 100, 140 Pearl Street, Buffalo, NY 14202-4040
Buffalo Estate Planning Information
Lead Counsel independently verifies Estate Planning attorneys in Buffalo and checks their standing with New York bar associations.
Our Verification Process and Criteria
Ample Experience
Attorneys must meet stringent qualifications and prove they practice in the area of law they’re verified in.Good Standing
Be in good standing with their bar associations and maintain a clean disciplinary record.Annual Review
Submit to an annual review to retain their Lead Counsel Verified status.Client Commitment
Pledge to follow the highest quality client service and ethical standards.
What Is Estate Planning?
Estate planning involves preparing to transfer your assets after your death and protecting your rights if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. It includes creating documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to ensure that your property is distributed according to your wishes. Estate planning also covers issues like minimizing taxes, protecting beneficiaries, and managing health care decisions if you become incapacitated. The goal is to provide clear instructions and avoid legal complications for your loved ones.
What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need an Estate Planning Lawyer?
You might need an estate planning lawyer if you:
- Want to draft a will or set up a trust to manage your assets
- Have a large or complex estate and want to minimize taxes for your loved ones
- Own a business and want control to pass to the right person
- Have specific wishes for your health care that everyone must follow if you cannot communicate them yourself
- Need to plan for the care of your minor children
- Already have an estate plan but need to update it after a major life change like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child
How Can a Lawyer Help Me With Estate Planning?
Creating an estate plan is a detail-oriented process. A lawyer can ensure that your estate plan is legally sound and reflects your intentions. This will minimize the chance of disputes between your loved ones after you are gone, which can drain your estate of its value. They will:
- Ensure your assets go where you want them to go
- Identify potential problems and solutions
- Create documents that are legally binding and meet the requirements of New York law
What Could Happen if I Don’t Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer?
If you don’t hire an estate planning lawyer, your documents might not meet legal requirements, causing your estate plan to be invalid. This could lead to your assets being distributed according to New York law rather than your wishes. Without proper planning, your estate might face higher taxes and legal fees, reducing the amount left for your beneficiaries. Additionally, without a clear plan, your family could face disputes and legal challenges. A lawyer helps ensure your estate is managed smoothly and according to your wishes, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
What Questions Should I Ask When Trying To Find an Estate Planning Lawyer in Buffalo?
These questions can help you decide if you feel comfortable and confident that a lawyer has the qualifications, experience, and ability to manage your case well. Many lawyers offer free consultations that allow you to understand your options and get specific legal advice before hiring them. The top questions to ask include:
- How have you handled cases like mine?
- What are the potential outcomes of my case?
- What is the timeline for completing my estate plan?
- What is your billing and fee structure?
- How long have you been practicing in New York?
- What will my involvement be during the process?
Tips for Hiring an Estate Planning Lawyer
Finding a lawyer who is right for you and will represent your best interests is an essential first step in managing your defense and protecting your rights. Find a lawyer who understands your case, knows your needs and goals, and has the experience to get the best outcome. Things to do:
- Ask for recommendations
- Research lawyers online
- Schedule consultations
- Review experience and expertise
- Talk about billing and fees
- Trust your instincts