Wills Attorney in Riverhead, NY

Protect Your Family's Future Today

Clear estate planning guidance when you need it most, with home visits and bilingual support throughout Long Island.

Estate Planning Services Riverhead

Your Family Gets Real Protection

You’re not just getting a document. You’re getting peace of mind that your wishes will be followed and your family won’t face unnecessary legal battles or financial hardship.

When your will is properly drafted and executed, your loved ones can focus on grieving and healing instead of navigating complex probate courts. Your assets go exactly where you intended, your children’s guardianship is secured, and your final wishes are crystal clear.

No family disputes over unclear language. No court delays eating into your estate. No confusion about who gets what or who’s in charge. Just the security that comes from knowing you’ve handled this right.

Riverhead Estate Planning Attorney

We Know Long Island Families

Fratello Law has been serving Long Island families through their most important legal decisions for years. We understand the unique challenges facing Riverhead residents, from protecting family homes to navigating New York’s complex estate laws.

We offer services in Spanish and Italian, recognizing the diverse communities that call Long Island home. We provide home, hospital, and nursing home visits because we know that legal planning can’t always wait for convenient office hours.

Our focus goes beyond just drafting documents. We specialize in elder law, Medicaid planning, and special needs trusts, offering comprehensive support for families dealing with aging, illness, or disability.

Will Preparation Process Riverhead

Simple Process, Thorough Results

Your will starts with a consultation where we learn about your family, your assets, and your specific concerns. We’ll ask about your children, your property, and any special circumstances that need attention.

Next, we draft your will using clear language that meets New York state requirements. You’ll review everything together, making sure every detail reflects your wishes. We explain each section so you understand exactly what you’re signing.

Finally, we handle the proper execution with witnesses and notarization. You’ll receive copies of all documents, and we’ll discuss how to store your will safely. We’re available for updates as your life changes.

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Comprehensive Will Drafting Services

Everything Your Will Needs

Your will includes asset distribution instructions, executor designation, and guardianship provisions for minor children. We also address specific Long Island considerations like property ownership structures and local tax implications.

For Riverhead families, this often means planning around valuable real estate holdings and ensuring Medicaid eligibility isn’t compromised. We coordinate with your existing financial planning and can recommend updates to beneficiary designations on accounts and insurance policies.

Each will is customized for your situation. Whether you’re a young parent establishing basic protections or an older adult with complex assets, we ensure your document covers everything that matters to your family.

Do I need a lawyer to write my will in New York?

New York doesn’t require a lawyer to write your will, but the risks of doing it yourself are significant. A will that doesn’t meet state requirements can be declared invalid, leaving your family with no guidance and forcing them through intestacy proceedings. New York has specific rules about witness signatures, notarization, and language that must be followed exactly. One mistake can invalidate the entire document. Online templates don’t account for your unique situation or New York’s particular requirements. An attorney ensures your will is legally valid and covers scenarios you might not consider. We also help you avoid common mistakes that could cost your family thousands in legal fees later.

How much does it cost to have a will drafted?

Will costs vary based on complexity, but most straightforward wills range from $300 to $800. This includes the initial consultation, document preparation, and proper execution with witnesses. More complex situations involving multiple properties, blended families, or special needs considerations may cost more. However, this investment is minimal compared to the potential costs your family could face without a proper will. Many attorneys offer package deals that include other essential documents like healthcare directives and power of attorney forms. Getting everything done together often saves money and ensures all your documents work together properly.

What happens if I die without a will in New York?

Without a will, New York’s intestacy laws determine how your assets are distributed. This rarely matches what people actually want for their families. Your spouse gets the first $50,000 plus half of the remaining assets, with the rest going to your children. If you have minor children, the court appoints a guardian without knowing your preferences. This process takes months and costs thousands in legal fees that come out of your estate. Your family also loses control over timing. Instead of receiving their inheritance when you think they’re ready, everything is distributed according to state law. This can create financial problems for young beneficiaries or family members who aren’t prepared to handle large sums.

How often should I update my will?

Review your will every three to five years or after major life changes. Marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or significant changes in assets all require will updates to ensure your document still reflects your wishes. New York law has specific rules about will modifications. You can’t just cross out sections or write in margins. Changes require either a new will or a properly executed codicil (amendment) that follows the same formalities as the original will. Major life events that should trigger a will review include getting married or divorced, having children, buying or selling significant assets, moving to a new state, or changes in your relationships with beneficiaries or executors.

Can I name anyone as executor of my will?

New York allows you to name almost anyone as executor, but they must be over 18 and legally competent. Non-residents can serve as executors but may need to post additional bonds or meet other requirements. Choose someone who is trustworthy, organized, and willing to handle the responsibility. Being an executor involves significant work including filing court papers, managing assets, paying debts, and distributing property according to your will. Consider naming a backup executor in case your first choice can’t serve. Many people choose adult children, siblings, or close friends. You can also name professional executors like attorneys or trust companies, though this increases the cost to your estate.

What's the difference between a will and a trust?

A will only takes effect after you die and must go through probate court. A trust can be used during your lifetime and often avoids probate entirely. Trusts offer more privacy since they don’t become public record like wills do. For many Long Island families, a simple will is sufficient and much less expensive than establishing a trust. Trusts make sense when you have significant assets, want to avoid probate, or need ongoing management for beneficiaries who can’t handle money responsibly. The decision depends on your specific situation, including the size of your estate, your family dynamics, and your privacy concerns. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you determine which approach most effectively serves your goals and budget.

Local Resources

Riverhead, NY is located in Suffolk County in New York State

Wills Attorney in Riverhead, NY

Protect Your Family's Future Today