Estate Planning Lawyer Putnam County NY | SRIS, P.C.
Estate Planning Lawyer in Putnam County, NY
An Estate Planning Lawyer Putnam County NY helps you protect your assets and family’s future under New York law. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for wills, trusts, and estate administration in Putnam County. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to handle the details of your estate plan. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
What Is Estate Planning in Putnam County?
Estate planning in Putnam County involves creating legal documents to manage your assets during your life and distribute them after your death. This process is governed by New York statutes, including the Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA). A key goal is to avoid the lengthy probate process in Putnam County Surrogate’s Court and to minimize potential New York estate tax liability, which applies to estates exceeding $6.94 million. An experienced Estate Planning Attorney Putnam County NY can guide you through options like wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.
Last verified: April 2026 | Putnam County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official New York Estate Law Resources
Understanding the legal framework is important. You can review the official New York Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and the procedures outlined by the Putnam County Surrogate’s Court.
Local Estate Planning Process in Putnam County
Wills are probated through the Putnam County Surrogate’s Court. The court appoints an executor or administrator, issues citations to interested parties, and requires an inventory and accounting of the estate. Trust administration follows the EPTL. Our firm has observed that proper planning can significantly simplify this court process for families in Carmel, Brewster, and Mahopac.
- Schedule a consultation to discuss your assets, family situation, and goals.
- Draft core documents: a will, durable power of attorney, healthcare proxy, and possibly a trust.
- Execute documents with proper notarization and witness signatures as required by New York law.
- Fund any trusts created and ensure beneficiary designations on accounts are updated.
- Store original documents securely and provide copies to your executor and trusted family members.
- Review your plan every 3-5 years or after major life events.
Why Choose Our Estate Planning Law Firm Putnam County NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We focus on clear, direct legal strategies for estate planning. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to client-focused service. We handle the full range of estate matters for Putnam County residents.
Our Approach to Your Estate Plan
We provide full representation for estate planning in Putnam County. Our process begins with understanding your specific family dynamics and financial picture. We then prepare documents that reflect your wishes while aiming to avoid probate delays and reduce tax exposure. We are available to answer your questions throughout the process.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Estate Planning Lawyer Near Putnam County
Our New York location serves clients at Putnam County courts. We represent individuals and families in Carmel, Brewster, Cold Spring, Mahopac, Putnam Valley, Kent, and Patterson. Our location is accessible via I-87, I-84, and the Taconic State Parkway.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Estate Planning Lawyer Putnam County NY FAQ
Do I need a will if my estate is small?
Yes. Even with a small estate, a will directs asset distribution, names an executor, and can appoint guardians for minor children. Without a will, New York intestacy laws decide who gets your property, which may not match your wishes.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
It depends on your goals. A will takes effect after death and goes through probate. A trust can manage assets during your life and after death, often avoiding probate. A revocable living trust offers flexibility, while an irrevocable trust can provide asset protection and tax benefits.
How does New York estate tax work?
New York has its own estate tax with a $6.94 million exemption (2026). Estates valued above this may be taxed at rates from 3.06% to 16%. Crucially, New York has a “cliff” tax: if the taxable estate exceeds 105% of the exemption, the tax applies to the entire estate value.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Putnam County?
The estate enters probate as “intestate.” The Putnam County Surrogate’s Court appoints an administrator, and assets are distributed according to New York’s intestacy laws to surviving spouses, children, or other relatives in a set order, which may not reflect the deceased’s relationships or wishes.
Can I change my estate plan after it’s done?
Yes. You can and should update your estate plan. Life events like marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or significant financial changes are reasons to revise your will, trusts, and beneficiary designations. Regular reviews ensure your plan stays current.
Related Legal Services in Putnam County
Our firm assists with various legal needs in Putnam County. You may also need a business lawyer for succession planning or a civil litigation lawyer. For broader New York estate planning information, visit our New York estate lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Albany County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under N.Y. Bus. Corp. Law § 101, state law governs this practice area.