Manhattan’s Trusted Estate Planning And Litigation Attorney For More Than 40 Years

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Timely And Efficient Administration Of Estates Involving Significant Property

An experienced estate attorney is essential to ensure timely and efficient administration of any estate involving significant property, regardless of whether the deceased left a will. For over 40 years, William A. Simon has represented people in probate and estate administration matters in New York. He will work with you to make certain that all debts and any taxes due are paid, claims are settled in the most advantageous ways, all deadlines are met and your loved one’s assets are administered and distributed properly.

He will guide the designated estate executor or administrator through the often confusing process of estate administration, which involves the following:

  • Probate of a will or appointment of an administrator
  • Collection of assets and determination of their value
  • Payment of debts and administration expenses
  • Payment of estate taxes
  • Audits of estate tax returns
  • Accounting to the beneficiaries of the estate
  • Distribution of the estate
  • Estate litigation

Mr. Simon considers personal attention to his clients to be the most important factor in meeting their needs.

Distinctly Attentive To Your Legal Needs

Attorney Simon takes all of the time necessary to listen to your situation. When you have questions or concerns during the proceedings, he answers them directly. Cases are not delegated to a junior lawyer, and any work performed by paralegals is directly supervised by him.

Mr. Simon’s knowledge of estate and probate law is extensive. He keeps up to date with the frequent changes in the laws and court precedents affecting estate administration and taxation. When he takes your case, you can rest assured that all deadlines will be properly followed, all necessary steps will be taken, and your rights will be protected.

Frequently Asked Estate Administration Questions

Estate administration can be complicated, and you likely have questions about it. Attorney Simon believes in providing his clients with as much helpful information as possible. Below are a few common questions from his clients.

Is it legal for an estate executor to also be a beneficiary?

Yes. In fact, many people choose beneficiaries who are also direct descendants – their adult children – as estate executors. Unless the children have been disinherited, they will expect some of the estate to go to them. A beneficiary in this position needs to be sure to follow the law and the regulations for the estate in their role as executor.

What are some “red flags” that an executor isn’t carrying out their responsibilities?

In some cases, an executor may miss certain deadlines, such as failing to pay property taxes or failing to distribute copies of the will. It is a serious red flag if the administrator removes assets from the estate. They are supposed to take an inventory of the assets in the estate, but those assets should then be distributed in accordance with the will.

When can an executor be removed from administering an estate?

It is sometimes possible to remove an executor from their position. This may be done if there is clear evidence of fraud or theft, or if it appears that the executor is illegally taking items – or financial assets – for their own purposes. Even if there is no evidence of fraud, it may be necessary to remove an executor who is careless, negligent or just incompetent and unable to perform their duties as expected. Missing deadlines, failing to make payments and generally mismanaging administration duties are grounds to remove an executor.

Speak With William A. Simon Today

Contact the law firm of McGarry & Simon at 212-235-1898 to schedule a free initial consultation about estate administration and probate.