Probate, Estate Administration and Litigation Issues
At the Long Island, New York Law Office of Bonnie Lawston, our focus is on probate and estate administration and litigation. Our understanding of this area of law and broad experience are a significant asset for our clients. We know how easily problems can arise in the administration of an estate or the introduction of a will to probate and we know how to avoid those pitfalls. Since attorney Bonnie Lawston not only represents executors of estates, but also handles estate litigation for many heirs who are challenging wills, trusts and estates for a variety of reasons, she has gained a perspective from both sides of the table.
Whether you object to the probating a will, contest an accounting or defend against such actions, our law firm can advise you on the proper course of action or alert you to possible problems that may arise. We believe in educating our clients so that you can make informed decisions as you progress through this process.
Some of a few examples of issues our firm handles:
- Will or trust contests: For a number of reasons, such as incompetence, undue influence or fraud, heirs may dispute the validity of a will or trust.
- Will or trust construction issues: In this instance, the heirs or fiduciary ask the court for an order clarifying the ambiguity of how the will or trust is written or should be implemented. The matter sometimes deals with only one paragraph or a formula that unclear.
- Accounting objections
- Removal of executor or trustee from their fiduciary position
Executor or Trustee Challenges
When appropriate, estate administration and litigation attorney Bonnie Lawston can challenge improper actions of a fiduciary (executor, administrator or trustee) such as misuse of a power of attorney, failing to make distributions in a timely manner or at all, profiting personally from administration funds, conflicts of interest, etc.
- Removing a fiduciary: We assist heirs in protesting an appointment or removal of an executor because of conflicts of interest, misconduct or incompetence.
- Accounting Proceedings: If an heir questions how an investment policy or accounting procedure was used to manage estate assets, we can assist in the examination of the conduct and proceed accordingly.
- Spousal rights and kinship hearings: These proceedings establish and clarify inheritance rights and the validity of a prenuptial or ante-nuptial agreement along with the rights of a spouse who may have been left out of the will.
- Claims proceedings: We represent estates and the decedent's creditors. We will file and deal with such claims against the estate.
Client Focused Legal Services
We make clients a top priority, keeping them updated as the estate matter progresses or an occurrence happens. With technology available today, it is easier than ever before to provide clients with update often and quickly.
Because the Law Office of Bonnie Lawston concentrates its practice on estates and trusts administration and litigation, administration and represents both the fiduciary and heirs, we are particularly cognizant of common complaints, pitfalls and all the special problems to avoid.
Contact an Experienced New York Estate Administration & Litigation Attorney
When you need an attorney with substantial experience with estate and trusts law, no matter where you live contact the Long Island, New York Law Office of Bonnie Lawston at (631) 425-7299 or our 24/7 hotline at (877) 581-8498 to arrange a no cost, no obligation consultation.