Will Drafting Services in Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County
Creating a will is one of the most important legal steps you can take to protect your family and clarify your wishes after death. While many people delay this process, a properly drafted will is the foundation of a sound estate plan. At the Law Offices of John Mangelli in Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, we help individuals and families create legally enforceable wills that reflect their unique priorities and reduce the potential for confusion, conflict, or court delays.
A will allows you to decide who receives your assets, who will care for your children, and who will be responsible for carrying out your final wishes. Without one, New York’s intestacy laws will determine how your estate is divided—and those results may not reflect your intentions.
Why a Will Is Essential in New York
In the absence of a will, the law takes control of your estate. Your property will be distributed according to a preset formula that gives priority to immediate relatives, regardless of your actual relationships or preferences. For many people, this can lead to unintended outcomes, especially in cases involving stepchildren, estranged family members, or unmarried partners.
A valid will puts you in control. It gives you the authority to name your beneficiaries, appoint someone you trust to manage your estate, and make decisions about guardianship, gifts, and real estate. The document becomes your legal voice, ensuring your estate is handled the way you want—not just the way the law assumes.
Creating a will also minimizes the risk of disputes among surviving family members. When your wishes are clear and legally documented, there’s far less room for disagreement or litigation during an already difficult time.
What Goes Into a Legally Valid Will
In New York, a will must meet specific requirements to be considered legally binding. It must be in writing, signed by the person making the will (the testator), and witnessed by at least two individuals who are not beneficiaries. While that may sound simple, the legal language and structure of the document must still be precise and free of ambiguity.
A properly drafted will typically includes several key elements. First, it identifies the testator and revokes any previous wills. Next, it names an executor—the person responsible for administering the estate—and outlines their powers and responsibilities.
The document then lists beneficiaries and describes how the estate should be distributed. This may include specific gifts of money, property, or personal items, as well as general instructions for dividing remaining assets. In families with young children, the will can name a guardian and provide instructions for their care and financial support.
Finally, the will may contain clauses that deal with taxes, debts, and funeral arrangements, along with a self-proving affidavit to streamline the probate process. Working with an attorney ensures these clauses are included correctly and enforceable in court.
Updating an Existing Will
Life changes, and so should your will. Major life events—such as marriage, divorce, childbirth, retirement, or the purchase of a new home—can all impact your estate planning needs. If your will hasn’t been reviewed in several years, or if your relationships or financial circumstances have changed, it may no longer reflect your current intentions.
At the Law Offices of John Mangelli, we review existing wills to ensure they’re still relevant, legally sound, and strategically aligned with your goals. In many cases, a simple codicil can be added to
update certain provisions. In others, it may be best to revoke the old will and create a new one entirely.
In Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, changes in property value or the acquisition of coastal or multi-family real estate may also affect how your estate should be structured. A local attorney can help you assess whether your documents need revision and guide you through the update process.
The Role of the Executor
One of the most important decisions in any will is the appointment of an executor. This person will be legally responsible for gathering your assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing your property according to your instructions.
In Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, the executor may need to coordinate with local courts, title companies, and financial institutions. They may also be responsible for selling property, filing tax returns, or working with attorneys to resolve any legal disputes. Choosing someone who is both trustworthy and capable of managing these responsibilities is essential.
If you do not name an executor, or if the person you’ve named is unable to serve, the court will appoint one. That person may not be the individual you would have chosen—and may not have a full understanding of your wishes.
Serving Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk Countyand Surrounding Communities
The Law Offices of John Mangelli proudly assist clients in Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. Whether you are preparing your first will or revising an outdated document, we provide clear, experienced legal guidance tailored to your life.
We understand the importance of this process and take the time to ensure that every detail is accurate, enforceable, and reflective of your values. With a local attorney who understands both state law and regional estate dynamics, you can move forward with peace of mind and a plan that truly works.