Wills Helping Individuals for 30 years

Fishkill Wills Lawyer

Comprehensive Will and Estate Planning Services in Dutchess, Westchester, and Putnam Counties

Having a Will is a very important part of an Estate Plan. The goal of a Will is to make sure your property goes to who you want when you pass away.

A Will is a document which is carefully prepared and signed in front of two witnesses. In a Will you list how and when you would like your assets to be handled and transferred, as well as naming an executor to manage your Estate.

Why Hudson Valley Residents Trust Us for Estate Planning

Preparing Wills / Estate Plans for 30+ years
Free and confidential consultations
Tailored solutions for every legal need
Complete protection of your final wishes

Ready to Secure Your Legacy? Call (845) 764-8104 for a Confidential Consultation.

Guardianship and Asset Distribution: The Pillars of a Will

Naming a Guardian of a minor is the most important issue normally found in a Will. Without a Will in place, your minor children may be appointed a Guardian that you do not desire. Also, you will not have any influence over how your taxes and debts will be handled.

Typically the person listed as a beneficiary on any of your policies or accounts, will take precedence over a person listed as a beneficiary in your Will. This is why it is so important to have an updated Will and a comprehensive Estate Plan.

Essential Elements of a Valid Will

At Martin Law, PC, we have 30 years of experience in the field of Estate Planning. This includes helping individuals, like yourself, to draft, execute and change your Will. We are very familiar with all of the elements that are incorporated in drafting a Will.

Key Components Your Will Should Include:

You can name a personal representative
You can name a Trustee for your property
You can name a Guardian for minor children
You can leave your property to specific beneficiaries

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Local Will Amendment Solutions Tailored for Dutchess, Westchester, and Putnam Counties

Living in the Hudson Valley, particularly in Dutchess, Westchester, and Putnam Counties, means understanding the unique needs and concerns of our community. At Martin Law, PC, we are deeply familiar with the local regulations and the specific challenges residents face when it comes to estate planning and Will amendments.

For instance, the Dutchess County Surrogate's Court is a key local government entity that oversees the probate process. Ensuring your Will is up-to-date and accurately reflects your wishes can prevent unnecessary complications and delays in this court. Similarly, the Westchester County Clerk's Office provides essential resources for legal document filings, which can be crucial when amending your Will.

By working with Martin Law, PC, you benefit from our deep local knowledge and our commitment to addressing the specific needs of Hudson Valley residents. Whether you're looking to amend your Will to reflect changes in your family situation or to update your asset distribution, we are here to provide the guidance and support you need.

Discuss Your Will with a Dutchess County Lawyer – Call (845) 764-8104 for a Free Estate Planning Consultation.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the process for amending a Will in Dutchess County?

Amending a Will in Dutchess County involves creating a legal document called a codicil, which must be drafted and executed with the same formalities as the original Will, including being signed in front of two witnesses. It's important to ensure that the codicil clearly states the changes to be made to the Will. For a seamless process, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional who has experience in estate planning and Will amendments.

Can I name a guardian for my children in my Will in Putnam County?

Yes, in Putnam County, as well as other locations, you can name a guardian for your minor children in your Will. This is one of the most critical decisions you can make to ensure that your children are cared for by someone you trust in the event of your passing. Without a Will, the court will appoint a guardian without your input, which may not align with your preferences.

What are the key components that should be included in a valid Will?

A valid Will should include several key components: the appointment of a personal representative or executor, a trustee for any property held in trust, a guardian for any minor children, and clear instructions on how your property should be distributed to specific beneficiaries. It's essential to work with a legal professional to ensure that all elements are correctly included and that the Will complies with state laws.

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What Our Clients Are Saying

At Martin Law PC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

“a kind, thorough, and professional attorney...”
“strongly recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal counsel”

- Sharon and George Gillen
“Always provided sound legal advice”
“Martin Law makes their clients a priority and is there when you need him. They always provided sound legal advise. I am very grateful for all their help over the years.”

- Christine Murray
“Mr. Martin made it so easy to achieve the results I wanted.”
“It was the best decision I ever made. Each time I had a question about something, they were there with the answers.”

- Robert Beahan
“Michael and his staff are extremely professional and thorough.”
My husband and I have used Martin Law on several occasions and have always been very pleased. In addition to receiving excellent advice, Michael and his staff are extremely professional and thorough. I would not hesitate to recommend Michael Martin (and have).

- Risa Getman
“The service has been excellent”
I have used the Martin Law Firm for over 20 years. The service has been excellent handling real estate transactions, lawsuits and Estate Planning.

- Fred Cantor

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We have more than 20 years of legal experience.
We help our clients find the peace of mind they need.
We offer both personal attention and professional skill.
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