The phone call, the doctor's visit, the quiet drive home afterward. Whether the diagnosis was Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, or another form of cognitive decline, the moment you hear the words, your world shifts. There is grief, there is fear, and beneath both of those, often a...
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Cheryl Fratello Honored at Legal Services of Long Island Gala on May 6, 2026
On May 6, 2026, at the Legal Services of Long Island's 60th Diamond Jubilee Gala at The Piermont in Babylon, New York, Cheryl Fratello, Esq. was honored with the Barbara J. Mehrman Commitment to Justice Award — one of the most meaningful recognitions our firm has ever received. We are...
Spring Into Action: Growing Your Legacy for Future Generations
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY Why Spring Is the Perfect Time for Estate Planning?Spring is nature's season of renewal, growth, and preparation for the future - making it the perfect metaphor and timing for estate planning. Just as gardeners plant seeds in spring that will grow into summer and harvest in...
Understanding the Probate Process in New York State Surrogate’s Court: A Complete Guide for Long Island Families
Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with the legal complexities of settling their estate can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time. If you're facing the New York probate process, you're not alone—and understanding what lies ahead can help ease some of the anxiety and uncertainty. At...
Not All New York Powers of Attorney Are Created Equal: Why Elder Law Attorney POA Matters
You've done your homework. You've downloaded the New York State statutory Durable Power of Attorney form, filled it out, had it notarized, and filed it away. You're protected, right? Unfortunately, probably not. When crisis strikes—when you're hospitalized unexpectedly, diagnosed with dementia, or need nursing home care—that generic form you downloaded...
How to Talk to Your Parents About Estate Planning
Discussing estate planning for seniors with aging parents can be one of the most challenging and emotional conversations a family can have. The topic often brings up uncomfortable feelings about aging, health, and mortality. Yet, talking to your parents about working with an elder law attorney or an elder care...
Protecting Your Children’s Future: Why Love Means More Than Just Adding Their Name
As parents, we want nothing more than to provide for our children and ensure their financial security—especially if something happens to us. It seems logical: add your child's name as a beneficiary on your life insurance policy, retirement account, or bank account, and you're done. They'll be taken care of,...
Who is Your Executor? A New York State Guide to Choosing the Right Person for Your Estate
When creating your Last Will and Testament, one of the most critical decisions you'll make isn't just what you're leaving behind—it's who you trust to carry out your final wishes. Your executor plays a pivotal role in ensuring your estate is settled properly, your loved ones are cared for, and...
Honoring Memory: The Day of the Dead and the Legacy of Love
As estate planning and probate attorneys, we walk alongside families during some of life's most profound transitions. We help people plan for the future, protect what they've built, and ensure their wishes are honored. And when loved ones pass, we guide families through the legal complexities of grief. In this...
Amending Your Trust in NY: A How-To Guide
Your trust is a cornerstone of your estate plan, designed to protect your assets and ensure your wishes are carried out. However, a trust is not a "set it and forget it" document. Life is constantly changing, and your trust should evolve to reflect those changes. Amending a trust in...