NEW YORK CITY PROBATE & ESTATE PLANNING LAWYER

Whether you are a first-time home buyer or more experienced in the real estate world, I provide guidance as to all aspects of a real estate transaction such as contracts, closings, title insurance and mortgage financing. I have represented clients in matters involving cooperatives, condominiums, single and multi-family homes and leases. As a New York real estate attorney, I have represented clients in Court on matters such as the validity of deeds, encroachments, constructive trusts and landlord-tenant eviction issues such as primary residence, non-payment proceedings, hold-over proceedings and other lease disputes. I speak with clients all the time regarding the issues they are facing when buying or selling a home or other property. I understand the importance of reviewing papers with clients concerning cooperative or condominium units such as offering plans and financial statements. When a client is involved in a real estate deal, I discuss with them the details of the contract regarding such matters as a mortgage contingency clause, the closing date, and property conditions. I also analyze all financial requirements so that a closing will occur smoothly and efficiently.

With regard to landlord-tenant cases, I represent my client's interests in the landlord-tenant courts throughout New York City. Non-payment proceedings and holdover actions can be complex. However, I work with my clients to try and simplify these matters and obtain a quick resolution whenever possible.

Article 81 of New York’s Mental Hygiene Law grants authority to the Court to appoint a Guardian to assist in situations where an individual cannot manage personal or financial needs due to incapacity. Guardianship matters under Article 81 can become litigious since family and friends might contest:

1. the need for a Guardian;
2. the scope of the Guardian’s power;
3. the individual chosen to be the Guardian.
4. a Guardianship accounting.

As an experienced New York Guardianship lawyer, I’m familiar with these situations and work closely with clients to promote their interests as well as the interests of the individual alleged to be incapacitated. I have found that many Guardianship cases require quick action to help the family of the incapacitated person protect assets or make serious medical decisions. I have been able to file proceedings with the Guardianship Court in just a few days after initial intake. This is particularly important when a person’s assets appear to be at risk either because the incapacitated person has been neglecting financial responsibilities or it appears that the person may be subjected to elder abuse or financial manipulation.

I have appeared for clients throughout the New York Metropolitan region in Guardianship matters involving incapacity including Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, Nassau and Westchester Counties. Incapacity is not always easy to prove. The Courts need to see whether a person can perform basic activities of daily living such as caring for personal hygiene and handling ordinary matters like paying bills. I perform an initial investigation of these cases and work closely with family members and friends who want to protect and help a vulnerable person who may be at risk or suffer harm if a Guardian is not appointed. Call now if you have any questions regarding a New York Guardianship issue for a prompt free consultation.

As a New York estate planning lawyer, I advise clients in the creation and implementation of plans that effectively express the client’s personal desires regarding the disposition and protection of assets while providing potential tax advantages and security for family and beneficiaries. I help clients prepare their Last Wills whether simple or complex. Without a Will, State law determines who inherits your property. A Health Care Proxy, Living Will and Power of Attorney are all an important part of an estate plan and I work with my clients to put these papers in place. There are many complexities that can affect an estate plan. An essential element to plan an estate is to obtain kinship and asset information. I fully review these matters with clients so that any future probate or estate administration concerns may be alleviated. Missing or unknown relatives can create kinship issues that can delay probate or intestate administration. Also there are many assets that a Will does not control such as those that pass by operation of law like joint property. I explore these matters with clients so that the estate plan reflects a client’s intentions and desires. Estate taxes must be considered as well as a person's kinship. Some situations may require the creation of a Living Trust to provide long-term protection from incapacity or to avoid the probate process. Contact me to talk about creating a plan that can benefit both you and those you want to protect and benefit.

Jules Martin Haas provides comprehensive representation for his clients. Jules’ New York Probate Lawyer Blog serves as a reference guide for clients and the community. The Blog discusses important current issues and cases concerning New York estates and trusts. The Website and the Blog provide information so that you can learn about probate and administration of estates, guardianship and estate planning. A free consultation is always welcomed and encouraged. Call me now for a free review of your issues and concerns. Reasonable and flexible fee arrangements and personal representation are always provided.