A Last Will and Testament Lawyer in NYC

last will and testament lawyer working with a client

A Last Will & Testament: Protecting Your Wishes and Your Family

No one wants to think about their own passing, and we understand. But your loved ones depend on you to make a plan for the future after you’re gone. A Last Will and Testament ensures your property, money, and all belongings are distributed according to your wishes. Without one, NYC courts decide for you, which can lead to missing assets (or uneven distributions), delays in accessing property, or even disputes among family members; each advocating for “what’s right”.

At McAdoo Estate Planning, LLC, we’ve been local Last Will and Testament lawyers, dedicated to helping NYC residents since 2008. Our goal is to keep your assets and your home within your bloodline with a clear plan for your loved ones.

The Benefits of A Last Will and Testament

Decide Who Your Assets Are Distributed to

A will allows you to designate exactly who inherits your assets—you have full control, not the NYC courts.

Name Guardians for Minor Children

If you have underage children, a will lets you appoint guardians—people you handpick and really trust—to care for them.

Appoint Someone You Trust to Manage Your Estate

Your executor is someone you pick to distribute your assets to the rightful people on your behalf.

DIY Risks Aren’t Worth The Money

Many people think writing a will online or using a generic template is enough. Sure, it’s more convenient, and it can be cheaper, but the reality? Any vagueness in your writing, the merest detail you leave out, any legal requirements you forget, or any way the courts can interpret your will differently than you meant, they can or will.

With McAdoo Estate Planning, LLC, your will is properly drafted, reviewed for compliance with New York law, and tailored to your specific situation and goals.

Our Process, Your Results

If someone dies without a will, they are said to have died “intestate.” (The state of dying without a valid will) In that case, state law takes over.

Step 1: Discovery and Initial Planning

We start by understanding your family, your assets, and your priorities. We ensure your will addresses everything you’d like to include.

Step 2: Drafting Your Will

Our Last Will and Testament lawyers write your will in a clear way that meets all legal requirements and reflects your intentions.

Step 3: Review and Revision

We review the draft with you and answer any questions you may have. Our goal is to make you feel confident that every decision is documented properly.

Step 4: Establishment, and Voila!

Once finalized, we guide you through signing and witnessing your will so it’s legally valid.

Schedule your
consultation

But for a will to work, it must meet New York’s legal requirements.

McAdoo Estate Planning Is Here for You

At McAdoo Estate Planning we focus on Estate Planning designed to protect your assets for you and your family. With thorough plans and detailed wills & trusts, you can get peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored.

Contact us today to get a personalized consultation and determine the best strategy for your estate planning needs.

Answering Common Last Will and Testament Questions

What happens if I die without a will in New York?

Your local court will decide how your assets will be distributed. This can result in unintended inheritances and delays in distributing property.
Your will can cover property, financial accounts, personal belongings, business interests, and even digital assets. Really, anything you own.
Your will should be stored securely in a place that’s accessible to your executor. People usually keep it somewhere safe at home, in a safe deposit box, or with their Last Will and Testament lawyer.
It depends on the complexity, but usually, within a few weeks.
A photo of Kim McAdoo - Estate planning lawyer in NY

Schedule a Consultation with a testament Lawyer

Failing to create a will leaves the distribution of your assets up to New York law. That means:

Your family, your property, and your legacy deserve clarity and protection. A professionally drafted Last Will and Testament ensures your wishes are honored, your loved ones are cared for, and potential conflicts are avoided.

Don’t leave your estate to chance—take action now and secure your family’s futures.