Estate planning can feel overwhelming when you are starting from scratch. This page explains what to expect when you reach out, and which building blocks we will discuss on our first call — so you arrive prepared, not puzzled.
What We Will Cover Together
A complete New York estate plan coordinates four core documents:
| Document | Governing Law | Plain-English Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Will | EPTL §3-2.1 | Names beneficiaries; requires two attesting witnesses |
| Trust | EPTL Article 7 | Holds assets; revocable avoids probate; irrevocable reduces taxes or protects Medicaid eligibility |
| Power of Attorney | GOL §5-1513 (2021 form) | Authorizes someone to handle your finances if you cannot |
| Health Care Proxy | NY Public Health Law Art. 29-C | Appoints an agent for medical decisions — separate from financial POA |
One Number Worth Knowing Before We Talk
New York’s 2026 estate-tax exclusion is $7,350,000. Estates above 105% of that figure ($7,717,500) lose the entire exemption — a rule called the cliff. We will map your exposure in plain language. See also our statewide guide for how rules apply from Manhattan to Upstate New York.
Book a Free 30-Minute Consultation
Russel Morgan, Esq. serves clients across New York State — including NYC, Long Island, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Upstate communities — entirely online or in person.
No prior estate-planning knowledge required. We start at 101.
Further reading from Morgan Legal Group: the New York estate planning guide.