Clients often ask why they need to go through a probate process when someone dies leaving a last will and testament.  The simple answer is that there needs to be a legal procedure whereby the ownership of assets is transferred from the deceased to his/her beneficiaries.  Is probate something to be avoided?  The answer...

Clients who are moving or have moved from New York to Florida frequently ask if the wills prepared for them in New York are valid.  The short answer is yes, they are.  Florida attorneys may tell clients differently, but the reality is that as long as one can produce a sworn affidavit stating that...

Are you tired of the cold but concerned about the cost? If so, you aren’t alone. Although many people aspire to live the snowbird lifestyle, expenses often get in the way of making this dream a reality. However, what most people don’t realize is that, with a little planning, the snowbird lifestyle is available...

Florida is a haven for people looking to escape the cold winter months in New York and other northern states. Those who come to Florida each winter to escape the frigid northern temperatures are affectionately known as "snowbirds." If you are a northerner who is considering spending your next winter down south, there are...

Generally speaking, if you execute a last will and testament which conforms to the requirements set by the State in which you are a resident, that will is valid in every state.  In Florida, the execution requirements are a bit more stringent than they are in New York.  Not only must the witnesses sign...

There are a fair number of New Yorkers who decide to move to Florida, especially as they get older.  Sometimes it is because of the warmer weather there, sometimes it is to avoid income tax and/or state estate tax.  Regardless of the reason,if one is contemplating a move to Florida, or to any other...

People who move south each winter to avoid the cold weather are commonly referred to as "snowbirds." There are advantages and disadvantages to the snowbird lifestyle, and it's important to make sure you understand both before deciding to embark upon your new life as a snowbird. Below is an overview of the pros and...

A unique feature of Florida's winter months is the arrival of visitors from New York and other northern states. These travelers, commonly referred to as "snowbirds," make the journey south each winter to escape the frigid northern temperatures. If you are a New Yorker who is considering spending your next winter in Florida, below...

Every year, scores of New York residents move to Florida. For so-called “snowbirds,” this move is temporary, typically lasting until the weather up north warms up. For others, however, the move from New York to Florida is permanent. Whether you are moving from New York to Florida temporarily or permanently, there are several possible...