Wills Attorney in Old Westbury, NY

Protect Your Family's Future Today

Every family deserves the peace of mind that comes with a properly executed will and comprehensive estate plan.

Estate Planning Wills Old Westbury

Your Assets, Your Rules, Your Legacy

When you have a legally valid will, your family knows exactly what you wanted. No guessing. No state interference. No unnecessary delays during an already difficult time.

Your assets go where you intended them to go. Your children are cared for by the people you trust. Your wishes are followed, not New York’s default intestacy laws that might distribute your property in ways you never would have chosen.

This is what proper estate planning delivers: control over your legacy and protection for the people you love most.

Old Westbury Wills Lawyer

Long Island Focused, Family Centered

At Fratello Law, we understand what matters to Long Island families. We know the value of the homes you’ve worked decades to pay off, the complexities of multi-generational planning, and the importance of protecting what you’ve built.

Our firm serves families throughout Old Westbury and the surrounding communities with bilingual services in Spanish and Italian. We come to you—whether that’s your home, the hospital, or a nursing facility—because we understand that estate planning shouldn’t add stress to your life.

We’ve been helping families navigate New York’s estate planning requirements with the kind of personal attention that makes a difference when you’re making decisions about your family’s future.

Will Preparation Process Old Westbury

Simple Process, Solid Protection

First, we sit down and talk about what you want to happen. Who gets what. Who takes care of your children. Who you trust to handle your affairs. We listen to your concerns and explain your options in plain English.

Then we draft your will to meet all of New York’s legal requirements. This isn’t a form you fill out online—it’s a document crafted specifically for your situation, your assets, and your wishes.

Finally, we make sure everything is executed properly. The right witnesses, the right signatures, the right process. Because a will that doesn’t hold up in court isn’t worth the paper it’s written on.

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Legal Will Drafting Old Westbury

What makes a will legally valid in New York State?

New York requires specific elements for a will to be legally enforceable. You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind when creating the will. The document must be in writing and signed by you at the end of the will. Most importantly, you must sign your will in the presence of at least two witnesses who don’t benefit from your will. These witnesses must also sign the document and provide their addresses. While notarization isn’t required, having your will notarized can speed up the probate process later. These requirements exist to prevent fraud and ensure your true wishes are documented. A will that doesn’t meet these standards can be challenged in court or deemed invalid entirely.

What happens if I die without a will in Old Westbury?

Without a will, New York’s intestacy laws decide how your assets are distributed. This means the state, not you, determines who gets your property. Your spouse and children receive portions according to a predetermined formula, but it might not match what you would have wanted. If you’re not married or don’t have children, your assets could go to parents, siblings, or other relatives you might not have chosen. If you have a life partner you’re not married to, they typically receive nothing under intestacy laws. The court also appoints someone to manage your estate and, if you have minor children, someone to serve as their guardian. These might not be the people you would have selected for these crucial roles.

How often should I update my will?

Review your will every five years or after major life changes. Marriage, divorce, birth of children or grandchildren, significant changes in assets, or moving to a different state all warrant will updates. In New York, you can’t just write changes on your existing will—this can make the entire document invalid. Instead, you need to create a formal amendment called a codicil or draft a completely new will that revokes the previous one. For Long Island families, changes in real estate values, new property acquisitions, or shifts in family dynamics often trigger the need for updates. Regular reviews ensure your will continues to reflect your current wishes and circumstances.

Can I write my own will or do I need a lawyer?

While New York allows you to write your own will, the legal requirements are strict and mistakes can be costly. A will that doesn’t meet all statutory requirements can be challenged, delayed in probate, or declared invalid entirely. Professional drafting ensures your will addresses all necessary components: proper execution, clear beneficiary designations, executor appointment, and guardianship provisions if you have minor children. We also help you consider tax implications and coordinate your will with other estate planning documents. For Long Island families with valuable real estate, complex family situations, or concerns about potential disputes, professional legal guidance provides essential protection. The cost of proper planning is minimal compared to the potential problems an improperly drafted will can create.

What should I include in my will?

Your will should clearly identify all your assets and specify who receives what. This includes real estate, bank accounts, investments, personal property, and any business interests. For Long Island homeowners, property descriptions need to be precise and complete. You’ll also need to name an executor—someone you trust to manage your estate and carry out your wishes. If you have minor children, your will should designate guardians for their care and someone to manage any property they inherit. Consider including provisions for what happens if your primary beneficiaries predecease you, and be specific about any personal items with sentimental value. The more detailed and clear your instructions, the easier it is for your family to follow them.

How long does the probate process take in New York?

Probate in New York typically takes six months to two years, depending on the complexity of the estate and whether anyone contests the will. A properly drafted and executed will can significantly speed up this process. Simple estates with clear documentation and no disputes often move through probate more quickly. Complex estates with multiple properties, business interests, or family disagreements take longer to resolve. Having a self-proving will (notarized with witnesses) can eliminate the need to track down witnesses during probate, saving time and reducing costs. Proper estate planning upfront makes the entire process smoother for your family when they’re dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Local Resources

Old Westbury, NY is located in Nassau County in New York State

Wills Attorney in Old Westbury, NY

Protect Your Family's Future Today