Trust Attorney in Shirley, NY

Protect Your Family's Future Today

Stop worrying about probate delays and protect what matters most with trusted legal guidance from our experienced trust attorneys.

Living Trust Creation Shirley

Skip Probate, Keep Your Privacy

Your family shouldn’t wait a year or more to access what you’ve worked your whole life to build. When you create a properly funded trust, your loved ones bypass the lengthy probate process entirely.

No court delays. No public records. No unnecessary legal fees eating away at your estate. Your trustee simply follows your instructions and distributes assets according to your wishes.

This means your beneficiaries receive their inheritance quickly and privately, without the stress of navigating New York’s complex probate system during an already difficult time.

Shirley Trust Lawyer Experience

Trusted Since 2012

We have been helping Long Island families protect their assets and plan for the future since 2012. We understand the unique challenges facing Shirley residents, from high property values to complex New York estate laws.

Our approach combines legal knowledge with genuine compassion. We take time to understand your specific situation and explain your options in plain English, not legal jargon.

We serve clients throughout Suffolk County with offices conveniently located in Smithtown and Syosset, and we’re available for home visits when needed.

Trust Planning Process Shirley

Simple Steps to Secure Your Legacy

Your trust planning starts with a free consultation where we discuss your goals, assets, and family situation. No pressure, no fees—just honest guidance about whether a trust makes sense for you.

Once we understand your needs, we’ll draft your trust documents with careful attention to your specific wishes. We explain every provision so you know exactly how your trust will work.

The final step is funding your trust by transferring your assets into it. We guide you through this process to ensure your trust is properly established and will function as intended when your family needs it most.

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Asset Protection Trust Benefits

What Your Trust Actually Protects

Your trust shields your assets from probate court, keeping your family’s business private. Unlike wills that become public record, trust contents remain confidential.

For Shirley residents with valuable real estate, this privacy protection is especially important. Your property values and distribution plans stay within your family, not in courthouse files for anyone to see.

Beyond privacy, trusts offer control over when and how your assets are distributed. You can set conditions for beneficiaries, protect against creditors, and even plan for potential long-term care needs that could otherwise devastate your estate.

How much does it cost to create a trust in Shirley, NY?

Trust creation costs vary based on your specific situation and the complexity of your estate. We provide transparent pricing during your free consultation, so you know exactly what to expect. The investment in a properly drafted trust typically pays for itself by avoiding probate costs, which can range from 3-7% of your estate’s total value. For most Long Island families, this means significant savings over time. We offer flexible payment options and never charge for your initial consultation. Our goal is to make trust planning accessible for families who want to protect their assets and provide for their loved ones.

What's the difference between revocable and irrevocable trusts?

A revocable trust allows you to maintain control over your assets during your lifetime. You can modify, amend, or even dissolve the trust if your circumstances change. This flexibility makes revocable trusts popular for probate avoidance and privacy. Irrevocable trusts require you to give up direct control over the assets, but they offer stronger asset protection and potential tax benefits. They’re often used for Medicaid planning and protecting assets from creditors. The choice depends on your specific goals. During your consultation, we’ll explain which type of trust aligns with your needs and family situation, helping you make an informed decision.

How long does the trust creation process take?

Most trust documents can be prepared within 2-3 weeks after your consultation, depending on the complexity of your situation. We work efficiently while ensuring every detail is correct. The timeline can vary if you have unique circumstances or need additional planning strategies. We’ll give you a realistic timeframe during your initial meeting and keep you updated throughout the process. Remember, the most important step is funding your trust after the documents are signed. We guide you through this process to ensure your trust is properly established and will work as intended for your family.

Do I still need a a will if I have a trust?

Yes, you typically still need a will even with a trust. We usually recommend a “pour-over” will that works alongside your trust to catch any assets that weren’t transferred into the trust. The will also allows you to name guardians for minor children, which cannot be done through a trust. This ensures all aspects of your estate planning are covered. Think of your will and trust as working together, not competing. Each serves specific purposes in your comprehensive estate plan, providing maximum protection for your family.

Can a trust help with Medicaid planning?

Certain types of trusts can be powerful tools for Medicaid planning, particularly irrevocable trusts that remove assets from your countable estate. This can help preserve your home and savings for your family while still qualifying for benefits. However, Medicaid planning requires careful timing and strategy. There’s a five-year lookback period for asset transfers, so advance planning is crucial for maximum effectiveness. We help Long Island families navigate these complex rules and create strategies that protect their assets while ensuring access to necessary care. Each situation is unique, so we develop personalized approaches based on your specific circumstances.

What happens to my trust when I die?

When you pass away, your successor trustee takes over management of the trust according to your written instructions. This transition happens immediately, without court involvement or delays. Your trustee will distribute assets to your beneficiaries as specified in your trust document. This process is typically much faster and more private than probate, allowing your family to receive their inheritance without unnecessary complications. The trust can continue operating for as long as you specify, providing ongoing management for minor children or other beneficiaries who may need structured distributions over time.

Local Resources

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

Trust Attorney in Shirley, NY

Protect Your Family's Future Today