April 8, 2020


As the COVID-19 crisis lingers, the interest of people seeking to prepare and/or update their estate planning documents has increased.  However, there is an inherent (and valid) concern of clients who have socially isolated themselves in compliance with the CDC directives.  As such, the Last Will and Testament and similar documents which required the signor sign in the physical presence of two uninterested witnesses have posed problems for estate planning attorneys throughout New York.

In light of the foregoing, on April 7, 2020, Governor Cuomo issued Executive Order 202.14 which allows for the remote witnessing of documents including the Last Will and Testament, Statutory Gifts Rider (which accompanies the Power of Attorney), Health Care Proxy, and Appointment of Agent to Control Disposition of Remains.

To remotely execute your estate planning documents you simply need (1) a valid photo ID; (2) the ability conduct a video conference with Littman Krooks (i.e. use Zoom, Skype, Facetime, Google Hangout, etc. on your smartphone, computer or tablet); (3) the ability to take a picture of your signature pages and text, email or fax them to us the same day you sign them; and (4) send the original documents to us within 30 days.

We understand that the daily challenges each of us face in these uncertain times.  However, we have seen the perils of people who have not planned, and people who improperly prepared and/or executed their estate planning documents. You do not want your loved ones to suffer the repercussions that are sure to follow.  

If you have not created your estate plan, or need to amend your estate plan, now is the time to do so. You can contact Littman Krooks to schedule a telephone or video consultation and discuss your estate planning needs. We are able to offer evening and weekend appointments.
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Join Our Facebook Live Event:
Preparing Your Estate Planning from Home
 

Thursday, April 9th at 1:00PM 
Facebook Live
Preparing Your Estate Planning From Home

Does the current crisis cause you to question whether your affairs are in order?
  • Do I have the necessary documents should I become ill or incapacitated?
  • Do my current documents still reflect my wishes?
  • Do my current documents still appoint the right people to make decisions on my behalf?
  • Do my current documents reflect any changes in the law?
  • Do my current documents reflect any changes in my family structure?
If so, we can help. Littman Krooks attorney Brian L. Miller, Esq., will discuss the need to have estate planning documents in place and how they can be prepared and executed remotely. In addition, he will answer questions about wills, trusts and advance directives during this crisis.

To join our Facebook Live event, please visit our Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/littmankrooks/ - at the designated day and time.

Disclaimer: These conferences are provided for entertainment and educational purposes only and shall not constitute the provision of professional legal, tax or other advice. The program endeavors to provide reasonably accurate information, however, due to timing issues, time limitations, and other factors, there is no assurance that every item can be relied upon, or that any item is accurate, complete or appropriate for any particular situation. Facts and circumstances, including but not limited to differences in state law, may make the application of a general planning idea discussed inappropriate in your circumstances. Littman Krooks LLP and its attorneys shall have no liability for errors, incorrect information, or inapplicability of information provided to any particular visitor/attendee. This may constitute attorney advertising under 22 NYCRR 1200.
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We are available to work around your busy schedule to address your legal needs. Ask us about evening hours and virtual appointment options. Please call 914-684-2100 or 212-490-2020 or send an email to icastillo@littmankrooks.com 

Littman Krooks LLP
399 Knollwood Road | White Plains, NY 10603 | 914.684.2100
655 Third Avenue | New York, NY 10017 | 212.490.2020