Wills
A will says who receives your property, names the executor who will carry out your wishes, and can name a guardian for minor children. Without one, New York law decides who inherits.
Estate planning documents
Your wishes, in writing
These documents make sure the people you trust can act for you, and that your family knows what you want. Many people take care of them together, and I'll help you decide which ones you need.
Timing matters. These documents have to be signed while you can still understand them and make your own decisions. If you or a parent has a new diagnosis, call sooner rather than later.
The documents I prepare
Living Wills
A living will puts your wishes about medical treatment at the end of life in writing, such as whether you would want life support. It speaks for you if you can't speak for yourself, and it spares your family from guessing.
Living Will for advanced Alzheimer's or dementia
An optional living will that addresses the advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease or dementia. While you are able to, you state the care you would and would not want if the illness progresses that far.
Health Care Proxy
A health care proxy names a person you trust, your health care agent, to make medical decisions for you if you can't make them yourself.
Power of Attorney
A power of attorney names someone you trust to handle your money and property, such as paying bills, banking and dealing with insurance, if you can't or when you'd like the help.
“Jill helped myself and my family with Powers of Attorney for 3 family members… We will never forget her kindness during our challenging time.”
Common questions
What's the difference between a living will and a health care proxy?
A health care proxy names a person to make medical decisions for you. A living will records your own wishes about end-of-life care. Many people have both, so their agent has clear guidance to follow.
Who keeps my original will?
You do. You take your original will home after we sign it, and I keep a copy on file.
When should I update my will?
Review it after big changes: a marriage or divorce, a birth or death in the family, a move, or a change in the person you named as executor or guardian.
I'm helping an aging parent. Where do we start?
Call me and we'll talk it through. Often the most urgent pieces are a health care proxy and a power of attorney, so someone can act if your parent can't. We can meet in person nearby, by phone or on Zoom, whichever is easiest for your family.
What will it cost?
My rates are reasonable. The fee depends on what's involved, and I'll explain it before any work begins, so there are no surprises. Your first 10 minutes on the phone are free.
Let's get your wishes in writing
Call 315-664-4458You'll reach Jill directly, or leave a message after hours. First 10 minutes free.