Queens Trusted Probate & Estate Attorney

Q: Must my will leave something to my spouse and children?

New York law generally protects spouses and minor children. Unless you have a prenuptial agreement that disallows inheritance of individual property, your surviving spouse can petition the court to inherit a portion of your estate. If you are not married or in a relationship, your partner or cohabiting friend may not inherit anything under New York law.

Q: After I die, can someone challenge my will?

Yes. To prevail in court, the challenger must prove undue influence, forgery, or incompetence in the execution of the will.

Q: Can my will appoint a guardian to manage the property of my young children?

If both parents are unable to care for minor children and you want to choose who will care for them, you'll need to appoint a guardian to care for them and manage their assets.

Q: How do I change my will?

If you want to change your will, don't write it in the original. This could render your will invalid. Use a " codicil " to make changes. A codicil is an addition or amendment to your will. You can also write a new will that includes all the changes.

Q: Where should I keep my will?

Keep the original of your will in a safe and easily accessible place known to your family. Copies are generally ineffective; the original is required. If you keep it in a safe, it may take some time to be opened after your death. Alternatively, you can file your will with the probate court in the county where you live.

Q: Who ensures that the wishes in my will are carried out?

An executor is responsible for ensuring that the wishes in your will are properly carried out. You can name an executor in your will. You can also name an alternate executor if the first executor is unable to act.

Located in Flushing, NY, estate lawyer Dehai Zhang handles Will, Probate and Estate litigation.
Estate Litigation Expertise — We ensure that wills are executed as intended and beneficiaries’ rights are respected.
When You Should Contact Us:
- Consider drafting a will
- Need a letter of testamentary
- Need estate administration letter
- Disputes over wills or executors.
- Unfair beneficiary treatment.
- Complex estate distributions crossing state or immigration lines.

How Can We Help?

Draft your will based on your wishes
Probate the will
Apply for Letter of Administration
Review the will and identify litigation needs.
Communicate your rights as a beneficiary.
Negotiate or litigate to enforce fair outcomes.

Testimonials

"The office provided my mom with excellent and expert legal services, with everything was explained and executed in a professional manner. My mom was very happy with how her legal matter was taken care of."

Divorce Immigration Criminal Defense Lawyers NYC

Y. Zhang

Long Island Client

" I had a great experience working with Mr. Zhang for my Will. Mr. Zhang was incredible helpful and friendly. He answered all my questions and explained patiently. The fee was very fair. I really appreciated his professional service. Mr. Zhang will be my Will attorney for many years to come. If you need a responsible and knowledgeable attorney, I highly recommended Mr. Zhang."

J. Wang
Queens, NY client

Will and Estate faqs

How many witnesses are required to sign a will?

A legally valid will requires two adult witnesses, who cannot also be beneficiaries. Witnesses do not need to understand the contents of your will; they only need to witness your signature.

Must my will leave something to my spouse and children?

After I die, can someone challenge my will?

Can my will appoint a guardian to manage the property of my young children?

How do I change my will?

Where should I keep my will?

Who ensures that the wishes in my will are carried out?