Can a beneficiary be a trustee? This is a common question asked during estate planning and, under New York law, the simple answer is “yes.” While it is possible to let a beneficiary act as trustee, this arrangement can add complexity to the estate planning process and may not be the best path for your...Read More

For families in New York, a common question after a loved one passes is “How long does it take to get inheritance money?”. The answer is not straightforward, since the time to receive assets can differ widely based on the estate’s complexity, whether a valid will exists, any disputes that surface, and how efficiently the...Read More

Creating a clear and enforceable estate plan is one of the most effective ways to protect your wishes and reduce stress for your loved ones. In Brooklyn, N.Y., one useful tool in the probate process is the self-proving affidavit. For families navigating trust and estate matters, this document helps simplify legal steps after someone passes...Read More

Choosing the right person to manage your trust is more than just a legal formality—it’s a pivotal decision that determines how your legacy unfolds. At Miller & Miller, we guide clients through this process with the clarity and care it deserves.  The trustee holds significant responsibility, overseeing the steps from asset management to final distribution....Read More

This article will focus on some of the key parties to a trust.  There are generally three parties to a trust; the grantor, trustee, and beneficiaries. The Grantor or Settlor is the person that creates the trust.  This person will discuss with their attorney their wishes for the trust and the terms that will be...Read More

Navigating estate planning requires a clear understanding of how property protections work, especially for homeowners in Brooklyn. When considering how best to secure assets, many people ask about the homestead exemption New York provides. Our NYC trust and estate lawyers at Miller & Miller, assist clients with strategies designed to protect their homes and assets through tailored...Read More

Planning for the future often raises important questions, and one of the most common is how to set up a revocable living trust. This tool allows individuals and families in Brooklyn to maintain control of their assets during their lifetime while ensuring a smoother transfer to beneficiaries later. Our NYC trust and estate lawyers at Miller...Read More

You’ve found your dream home and your offer’s been accepted – this is an exciting time! As you approach closing, your agent, attorney, or title company will ask how you’d like to hold the title to the property. While individual ownership is common, placing your new house into a trust right from the start has...Read More

The word “trust” gets used quite broadly, creating potential confusion. While a “living trust” is a widely discussed instrument for estate planning, it’s crucial to understand that not every trust is a living trust. We’ll break down the key distinctions. What is a Trust? Simply put, a trust is a legal arrangement where someone (the...Read More

When creating a trust, it is important to understand the specific roles involved. The grantor is the person who establishes a trust. The designated beneficiary is the person who receives the assets held in trust when the grantor dies. Probate is unnecessary because trust property passes outside the Last Will and Testament or Intestacy law....Read More