Protecting What Matters Most: You, Your Family, Your Future.

The probate process in Queens usually takes 7–9 months on average, but the timeline can vary depending on the size of the estate, whether the will is contested, and how quickly documents are filed. Simple cases may be resolved in just a few months, while more complex estates with disputes can take a year or longer. Working with an experienced Queens probate lawyer can help avoid delays and keep the process moving smoothly.

If a person dies without a will (intestate), New York’s intestacy laws decide who inherits their assets. Generally, property is distributed to the closest relatives—starting with a spouse and children, then parents, siblings, and more distant relatives. This can create complications or disputes, especially in blended families. Having a valid will ensures that your wishes—not state law—determine how your estate is handled.

It depends on your goals.

• A will directs how your property is distributed and names guardians for minor children, but it still goes through probate.

• A trust can help avoid probate, provide privacy, and offer more control over when and how beneficiaries receive assets.

Many families in Queens use both a will and a trust to cover all bases—protecting children, minimizing court involvement, and reducing potential disputes. An estate planning attorney can help determine the right combination for your situation.

A power of attorney (POA) is a document you create in advance, authorizing someone you trust to handle financial or legal matters if you become unable to do so.
A guardianship is a court process used when someone has lost capacity and never set up a POA. The court appoints a guardian to manage that person’s affairs.

In short: a POA is proactive and avoids court; guardianship is reactive and requires legal proceedings. Preparing a POA now can save time, money, and stress later.

Your executor should be someone you trust to carry out your wishes, stay organized, and handle financial matters responsibly. Many clients choose a spouse, adult child, or close friend, but you can also appoint a professional (such as an attorney or accountant) if you prefer neutrality. In New York, your executor must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident over the age of 18. Choosing the right executor is an important step in ensuring your estate is managed properly and without conflict.