When Long Island parents sit down to plan for their families' futures, the first instinct is usually right: get a will, name a guardian, done. But a one-line guardian nomination is only the beginning of protecting children who aren't yet old enough — or ready enough — to manage an...
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You Have a Will. But Does Your Family Still Have to Go to Court?
When Diane's father passed away in St. James, she assumed the hard part was over. He had done "the responsible thing" years earlier — he'd signed a will at a local attorney's office, named Diane as executor, and told her exactly who was supposed to get what. What Diane didn't...
The Legal Checklist After a Dementia Diagnosis: What Long Island Families Need to Do Now
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...
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...