Starting an estate plan can feel overwhelming — but it does not have to be. At Morgan Legal Group, attorney Russel Morgan, Esq. walks first-timers through every essential document in plain language, serving clients across New York City, Long Island, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Upstate New York.
What We Cover in Your Consultation
A complete New York estate plan coordinates four core essentials:
| Document | NY Law | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| Will | EPTL §3-2.1 | Names beneficiaries; requires two witnesses and testator signature at the end |
| Trust(s) | EPTL Article 7 | Avoids probate (revocable) or reduces taxes/protects assets (irrevocable) |
| Power of Attorney | GOL §5-1513 | Appoints someone to manage your finances; durable by default under the 2021 statutory short form |
| Health Care Proxy | NY Public Health Law Art. 29-C | Appoints an agent for medical decisions — separate from your financial POA |
Why 2026 Is the Right Time to Plan
New York’s estate tax basic exclusion is $7,350,000 in 2026. Estates exceeding the 105% cliff ($7,717,500) lose the entire exemption and are taxed from dollar one at rates up to 16%. Dying without a will means intestacy rules under EPTL Article 4 — not your wishes — decide who inherits.
An appointment takes about 30 minutes. We listen first, then explain what your specific situation requires — no jargon, no pressure.
Book your free 30-minute consultation →
Learn more about New York estate planning essentials or review our statewide guide to understand how the law applies wherever you live in New York.
Have a question about your estate?
Talk it through with Russel Morgan — free 30-minute consult.
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