At Morgan Legal Group, attorney Russel Morgan, Esq. prepares a full suite of estate-planning documents for individuals and families across New York State — from New York City and Long Island to Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Upstate communities.
What We Prepare
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Last Will & Testament | Directs asset distribution at death; must meet EPTL §3-2.1 execution rules |
| Will Codicils & Amendments | Formally modify an existing will without a full restatement |
| Living Will | Records health-care and end-of-life wishes — a legally distinct document from a property will |
NY Will Requirements at a Glance
Under EPTL §3-2.1, a valid New York will requires:
- Testator signs at the end of the document (or directs another to sign in their presence)
- Testator declares the instrument as their will (publication)
- Two attesting witnesses, both signing within a single 30-day period
- Witnesses sign at the testator’s request and add their residence addresses
A will takes effect only at death and must be admitted to probate in the Surrogate’s Court. Dying without one means EPTL Article 4 intestacy rules govern who inherits — not your wishes. A surviving spouse retains independent rights under EPTL §5-1.1-A regardless of what any will provides.
Schedule Your Document Review
Every estate is different. Book a 30-minute consultation with Russel Morgan, Esq. to identify which documents belong in your plan.
Have a question about your estate?
Talk it through with Russel Morgan — free 30-minute consult.
Further reading from Morgan Legal Group: .