Your Trusted Estate Planning Partner in New York

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CEO & Founder of Morgan Legal Group

Russel Morgan is the principal of The Morgan Legal Group. Prior to forming his own private practice and throughout his legal career, Russel has concentrated in commercial and contract litigation, trust and estate planning, business and personal asset protection, wealth preservation and dynasty succession planning. Russel has also assisted clients with all forms of commercial and personal transnational work, including the preparation, re-structuring and litigation of various types of contracts.

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About Us

Morgan Legal Group is a trusted name in the legal industry, committed to excellence in Estate Planning, Probate, Family Law, and more. With a deep-rooted passion for helping our clients secure their futures and protect their legacies, our team of experienced attorneys combines expertise with a personalized approach. We’re dedicated to making the legal process accessible, understandable, and tailored to your unique needs. Discover the peace of mind that comes from partnering with Morgan Legal Group.

At the Morgan Legal Group PC, our focus is tailored to each client’s specific needs and requests. Our team of trained professionals can handle complex legal matters and take pride in providing qualitative personalized service. In addition, unlike many large assembly-line law firms, the client gets to speak to an attorney whenever they have a question.

Our strength is our ability to work hand in hand with our clients and achieve our common goals together in a fast-paced environment, whether your needs or urgent.

Our team takes pride in promptly returning any and all phone calls, emails, and other inquiries from each of our clients on the same day or at the time the client requests.

Client Testimonials

Over 300+ 5-Star Reviews

Nicholas ClarkNicholas Clark
09:12 27 Sep 23
I unexpectedly lost my son, who served in the military on the East coast. While searching for a probate attorney I came across Russel Morgan. What impressed me about Russel was his response, expertise and impressive skills. He wasted no time. As the executor of my sons estate I wanted a lawyer who could provide transparency to my family and Russel proved to be a choice, from the beginning. He not only guided me in the direction but he also presented options that I wasn’t aware of. Additionally his fees were reasonable and fair. When I needed a CPA in NY Russel Morgan went above and beyond, by recommending a trusted CPA in the area. It has been truly enjoyable working with Russel. I send my wishes to him and his team.
Ruby CollinsRuby Collins
14:14 14 Sep 23
After my husband passed away I found myself in need of a lawyer who specializes in guardianship and probate cases. After going through feedback from clients I made the decision to trust Russel Morgan with my case. I am extremely grateful that I chose him because both Russel and his team showed a level of empathy throughout the process. Their knowledge and guidance made a challenging experience much smoother. They were always there to address any questions I had and consistently followed up promptly. Now that the probate process is finished it’s time for me to update my estate plan. Again Russels team has been incredibly supportive and helpful as they guide me through this process. I want to express my gratitude, to Russel Morgan and his team, for assisting me in creating this gift” for my loved ones.
Isaac CarrollIsaac Carroll
10:17 09 Sep 23
My wife and I would like to express our appreciation to Russel and his team for the work they accomplished. They were consistently attentive. Promptly addressed any questions or concerns we had. As a family our estate planning process was a bit more complex than usual. Russel and his staff made it incredibly easy. Russel exceeded our expectations. We consider ourselves fortunate to have found an attorney who genuinely cares about his clients. If you’re looking for a attorney who takes the time to educate you on estate planning we wholeheartedly endorse Russel Morgan and his team.
Charlie SnyderCharlie Snyder
14:35 01 Aug 23
We are extremely grateful that we chose to work with Russel and his team at Morgan Legal Group for our trust and estate planning needs. With numerous concerns and a strong desire to safeguard our two children and assets in the event of unforeseen circumstances, it was crucial for us to establish a comprehensive plan. Russel’s expertise and guidance made the entire process seamless and effortless. We wholeheartedly endorse this law office to anyone seeking assistance with estate planning. Thank you, Morgan Legal Group, for your ongoing support!
Lance FarrellLance Farrell
09:40 28 Jul 23
Russel has done an exceptional job handling our estate planning, ensuring that our daughter with special needs will be well provided for. He is highly responsive and takes proactive steps to move the process forward. Not only did he patiently address all of our inquiries, but he also ensured that we fully comprehended the procedures and available choices. The reassurance we have, knowing that our children will receive the necessary support to settle our estate seamlessly when the time comes, is truly invaluable.
Paula LeePaula Lee
08:16 26 Jul 23
Attorney Russel Morgan has provided advanced directives, power of attorney (POA), and estate planning services for both my partner and me, as well as for my deceased sister and my father and step-mother. He possesses a deep understanding of his practice, excels in educating clients about wills and trusts, and exhibits remarkable patience in addressing numerous inquiries. The services were rendered at a fixed rate, which we found preferable to an hourly fee. Russel transformed what initially appeared to be an overwhelming task into a manageable endeavor, even injecting moments of enjoyment along the way. I wholeheartedly urge others to take that crucial step, schedule an appointment, and embark on this essential journey of advance planning for the sake of protection and peace of mind.
Sophia HernandezSophia Hernandez
13:50 18 Jul 23
Russel is an invaluable asset for our clients! He possesses a down-to-earth nature, a compassionate attitude, and offers exceptional value at a reasonable price. Russel goes the extra mile by dedicating time to actively listen and explain concepts, ensuring that clients comprehend their specific needs and objectives. Unlike most attorneys who simply draft documents and conclude their involvement, Russel takes the initiative to accompany clients throughout the process. He not only prepares all necessary documents but also ensures that their estate plan is adequately funded and aligned with their current life circumstances. We highly endorse Russel and his team as the go-to choice for our clients’ estate planning requirements!
Rachel HaynesRachel Haynes
15:19 12 Jul 23
Russel Morgan and Morgan Legal Group are highly skilled estate planning attorneys who specialize in the areas of estate planning and elder law, including Medicaid and a little-known Veterans benefit for chronic care. Their expertise, values, and success are a direct result of their narrow focus on these specific areas, unlike other attorneys who may spread themselves too thin and lack mastery in any one area.Morgan Legal Group takes a personalized approach to each client’s unique situation and goals, creating customized plans from scratch rather than relying on generic online templates. Based on my personal and business experiences, I have the utmost confidence in their ability to help clients achieve their estate planning goals. I have seen firsthand the value they bring to me and my family, as well as many satisfied clients we have worked with together. I highly recommend Russel and his team at Morgan Legal Group for all your estate planning needs.
Drew McGaugheyDrew McGaughey
08:52 10 Jul 23
Morgan Legal Group has been our go-to for all of our estate planning needs for many years. So when it came time for my wife and I to create our wills, we knew exactly who to turn to. Morgan Legal Group made it simple for us to meet both virtually and in person. They took the time to explain every page and line in a way that was easy to understand. Their guidance gave us the confidence we needed to make informed decisions every step of the way. The final product is extremely professional and provides us with peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of for the future.
Harry HoustonHarry Houston
11:08 06 Jun 23
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Russel for his exceptional assistance with my guardianship case. From our initial phone conversation, he displayed a remarkable level of professionalism and helpfulness. I give him a perfect 10 out of 10 rating in every aspect, from his clear and understandable email communications to his prompt and thorough responses to all of my questions. Russel went above and beyond in his attentiveness and professionalism, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking legal support. Thank you so much, Russel!
Tyler NguyenTyler Nguyen
15:10 02 Jun 23
I recently worked with Morgan Legal Group for my estate planning needs, and let me tell you, they are top-notch! Their estate attorney walked me through the entire process with patience and clarity. They explained in simple terms what not to put into a living trust, ensuring that my assets were protected. The entire team, from the friendly receptionist to the knowledgeable lawyers, made me feel like family. If you’re looking for an estate planning attorney who knows their stuff, this is the way to go!
Dianna McdonaldDianna Mcdonald
06:16 09 May 23
We contacted Morgan Legal Group to update our Wills and Estate Plan, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with our experience. From start to finish, they were incredibly professional, communicative, and provided exceptional service. Their team evaluated our current situation and suggested revisions that were tailored to our specific needs. We truly appreciated their attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that everything was taken care of. Thank you so much for making this process so seamless and stress-free!
Elizabeth SawyerElizabeth Sawyer
09:22 08 May 23
I have had the good fortune of collaborating with Mr. Morgan and his team at Morgan Legal Group for the past couple of years. He has assisted me with real estate business setup, property closings, and estate planning. Mr. Morgan is an incredibly skilled and knowledgeable attorney who is always fair in his dealings. Whenever I need to reach out to him, I know that I will receive a great return on my investment. However, that’s not all that I rated him five stars for. Since I’ve known Mr. Morgan, he has become a friend, teacher, and an invaluable referral resource for any niche attorney services that I might need.
Barbara LoweryBarbara Lowery
14:42 03 May 23
Morgan Legal Group, led by Mr. Morgan, is an exceptional law firm. Mr. Morgan is a unique lawyer who truly cares about his clients. He went above and beyond to ensure that our needs were met and walked with us like family throughout the entire process. His competence and compassion are unmatched in the legal system, as he provided us with excellent legal advice in all of the situations we faced. We highly recommend Morgan Legal Group for anyone seeking a lawyer who truly cares about their clients’ well-being.
Irma TuckerIrma Tucker
13:46 03 Apr 23
When looking for a trust attorney near me, I came across these guys. Their team of attorneys were extremely helpful in explaining what assets should not be included in a living trust and what not to put into a revocable trust. I was indeed surprised with how easily they explained all the details. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a trustworthy and reliable trust attorney.
Tommy PaceTommy Pace
09:46 23 Mar 23
The estate planning costs at Morgan Legal Group were reasonable and transparent. Mr. Morgan provided me with a clear understanding of all costs associated with his services, ensuring that there were no surprises along the way. He was upfront and honest about all costs, and I felt comfortable knowing that I was getting quality services at a fair price.
Assetou CoulibalyAssetou Coulibaly
20:58 24 Jan 23
This office provided excellent service. I wanted help securing my valuables but was unsure to who I could entrust such an important task. I wholeheartedly endorse Russel and his team! Every step of the journey was stress-free, unpretentious, and instructive. It’s comforting to know that my valuables, and more importantly, the people I care about, will be protected. It feels good to have things all out and to know to who I can ask questions when they occur. Thank you for your reliability, guys.
Troy SimpsonTroy Simpson
08:12 02 Dec 22
Russel Morgan is my go-to estate planning attorney! My wife and I are big on trust, knowledge, and professionalism, and Russel and the team at Morgan Legal get an A ++ in all 3 facets. In addition, Russel was compassionate and sincere when dealing with us, he took all the time to make sure we understood the process and were comfortable with each statement. Pricing is very competitive, we never got a feeling we were overcharged or anything. Thank you for your hard work, guys, you did a fantastic job!!!
Dustin ClarkDustin Clark
13:55 30 Nov 22
The staff at Morgan Legal Group is very professional, polite, courteous, and helpful. They go above and beyond to make sure you are comfortable with the time of your appointment and can easily make any changes if needed despite their busy schedule. I also enjoyed working with Mr. Morgan. He is a true expert when it comes to estate planning. Would not hesitate to call him any time!
Dana RichardsDana Richards
13:00 23 Nov 22
Russel Morgan is fantastic to work with, especially when you have little idea about the process of estate planning. He is knowledgeable, and I think that this is his experience and pure understanding of the subject that allows him to explain each detail plainly. He makes an otherwise difficult subject as understandable as it can be and he made sure all our goals were put in writing. I highly recommend him. Very approachable.
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Recognition

Why Choose Us

Specialization and Expertise:

Emphasize the firm's specialization in estate planning. Highlight the depth of knowledge and experience your attorneys possess in this specific area of law. Clients often seek experts who can provide tailored solutions to their estate planning needs. Mention any certifications or advanced training your team has in estate planning, which can boost client confidence.

Comprehensive Approach:

Explain how Morgan Legal Group takes a comprehensive approach to estate planning. Detail the various services you offer, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Let clients know that your firm can handle the entirety of their estate planning needs under one roof, ensuring all aspects of their financial and healthcare wishes are accounted for.

Legacy Preservation and Asset Protection:

Illustrate how Morgan Legal Group focuses on preserving and protecting the client's legacy and assets. Explain the strategies and tools your firm employs to help clients minimize estate taxes, avoid probate, and ensure a smooth transition of assets to beneficiaries. Share success stories or case studies that demonstrate your firm's ability to help clients safeguard their wealth and provide for future generations.

You Deserve One of Our Prominent Lawyers in New York

Years of Legal Excellence

Questions And Answers

Estate planning refers to arranging and organizing an individual’s assets and affairs to ensure their proper management during their lifetime and the smooth distribution of those assets after their death. It involves making legal and financial arrangements to protect and transfer assets according to their wishes while minimizing potential taxes, fees, and conflicts.

Estate planning typically involves the following elements:

Will or Trust:

A will is a legal document specifying how a person’s assets should be distributed upon death. Trusts, on the other hand, are legal entities that hold and manage assets for the benefit of beneficiaries according to the terms set by the trust’s creator. Wills and trusts are fundamental components of estate planning.

Power of Attorney:

A power of attorney document appoints a trusted individual (known as an agent or attorney-in-fact) to make financial and legal decisions on behalf of the person creating the document. This is crucial for situations where the individual becomes incapacitated or unable to manage their affairs.

Healthcare Proxy or Advance Directive:

These documents appoint someone to make medical decisions on the individual’s behalf in case they cannot do so. They can also outline the individual’s medical treatment and end-of-life care preferences.

Beneficiary Designations:

In estate planning, individuals may designate beneficiaries for their retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other financial assets. These designations specify who will receive the assets upon death, bypassing the probate process.

Tax Planning:

Estate planning often involves strategies to minimize estate taxes and maximize the transfer of assets to beneficiaries. This may include using trusts, gifting methods, and other tax-efficient planning techniques.

Guardianship Designations:

For individuals with minor children, estate planning allows the appointment of a guardian to care for and make decisions on behalf of the children if both parents pass away.

Conclusion

Estate planning is a highly personalized process considering an individual’s unique circumstances, family dynamics, and financial goals. Therefore, consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney or professional is essential to create a comprehensive plan that aligns with your specific needs and ensures your wishes are carried out effectively.

The purpose of estate planning is to ensure that your assets and affairs are managed and distributed according to your wishes during your lifetime and after your death.

Estate planning serves several important purposes:

Asset Distribution:

Estate planning allows you to determine how your assets, including property, investments, bank accounts, and personal belongings, will be distributed among your chosen beneficiaries or heirs. It provides a legal framework to specify who will receive what and what proportions, avoiding potential disputes and uncertainty among family members.

Minimize Taxes and Expenses:

Through estate planning, you can implement strategies to minimize estate taxes, gift taxes, and other potential costs associated with the transfer of assets. Proper tax planning can help preserve more of your assets for your beneficiaries and reduce the financial burden on your estate.

Protecting Loved Ones:

Estate planning allows you to provide for the financial well-being and care of your loved ones, including minor children, elderly or disabled family members, or individuals with special needs. For example, you can designate guardians for minor children, create trusts to manage and protect assets for beneficiaries and establish provisions for healthcare decisions and end-of-life care.

Avoiding Probate and Maintaining Privacy:

A well-crafted estate plan can help your loved ones avoid or streamline the probate process, reducing the time, costs, and complexities associated with court-supervised probate proceedings. Additionally, specific estate planning tools, like trusts, can help maintain privacy by keeping your asset distribution details out of public records.

Business Succession Planning:

If you own a business, estate planning allows for the smooth transition and succession of your business interests. You can designate successors, create a plan for the management or sale of the business, and minimize disruptions to its operations.

Planning for Incapacity:

Estate planning involves preparing for incapacity or disability during your lifetime. Through documents like powers of attorney and healthcare directives, you can appoint trusted individuals to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot do so.

Philanthropic Goals:

Estate planning can also include charitable giving and supporting causes that are important to you. By having charitable bequests or creating charitable foundations or trusts, you can leave a lasting impact and support the organizations or causes you to care about.

Conclusion

By engaging in estate planning, you can have peace of mind knowing that your assets will be distributed according to your wishes, your loved ones will be provided for, and potential complexities and conflicts will be minimized. It is advisable to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney or professional to ensure your estate plan is tailored to your specific goals and circumstances.

Estate planning and Will planning are very different methods to get the best out of your assets in the future, although they are complementary and work together. Drafting a Will is an estate planning process, while Estate Planning can be achieved by drafting a will and using other tools such as a Power of Attorney, a Trust, and a Healthcare Proxy. Estate planning and Will planning each purport to set clear instructions to the court or your fiduciary regarding how your assets are. Will be distributed upon your death, but estate planning can go even further by resolving questions to come in the future regarding your health, finances, incapacity, and your living conditions.

It depends on your needs, objectives, and goals. Both a Will and a Trust Agreement are estate planning tools, but they serve different purposes. If they can work together or refer to one another in a logic of general estate planning, a Will and a Trust agreement remain very separate documents with significant differences.
The most apparent difference between a Trust and a Will is that a trust is effective upon its duly execution, as the grantor is alive. At the same time, the last will has effect only upon a testator’s death and proper probate proceeding.

If an individual dies without a Will, their property has to be distributed and passed as per the state’s laws of intestacy where the decedent was permanently residing before his death. For example, in New York State, if a decedent who died without a Will had a spouse and children, the spouse will be entitled to a portion of the decedent’s estate. Under such circumstances, the spouse will receive $50,000 in assets and half of the estate, while the decedent’s children will get the other half to be divided among them. If the decedent had a spouse but no children, the spouse will be entitled to the entirety of the estate.
If the decedent had no living children or spouse, his estate will pass to his grandchildren. Absent grandchildren, the decedent’s estate will be distributed to his parents. If the decedent’s parents are not alive, the decedent’s property will pass to the decedent’s siblings or their children…etc.

The cost of estate planning can vary based on your needs, objectives, financial situation, and attorney’s expertise. Therefore, your attorney needs to evaluate these factors before setting a price for the drafting and execution your Estate Planning documents.
Attorneys at Morgan Legal Group P.C. offer a free initial consultation to precisely assess your needs and discuss the cost of your Estate Planning.

If set and drafted correctly, a trust instrument offers several advantages by an experienced and specialized attorney. For example, a trust enables you to decide how your assets will be distributed before or after your death; it allows you to significantly and legally reduce applicable taxes such as gift taxes. In addition, it will enable you to protect your assets generally and let you name a person of trust (a fiduciary or trustee) who will manage your investments for you and under the directions set in your faith.
In other words, having a Trust can benefit you in many different yet effective ways.

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed to their beneficiaries or heirs. It is a court-supervised procedure that validates and executes the instructions outlined in the deceased person’s will (if there is one) or determines the distribution of assets according to intestacy laws (when there is no will).

The primary goals of probate are to ensure the proper management of the deceased person’s estate, pay any outstanding debts or taxes owed by the estate, and ultimately transfer the assets to the rightful beneficiaries.

The probate process typically involves the following steps:

Filing the petition:

The process begins by filing a petition with the probate court in the jurisdiction where the deceased person resided at the time of their death. The petition seeks to open the probate proceedings and appoint an executor or personal representative to oversee the estate.

Notifying interested parties:

Notice is given to all beneficiaries named in the will, as well as to any creditors or other interested parties who may have a claim against the estate.

Validating the will:

If there is a will, the court examines its validity. This includes confirming that it meets the legal requirements, such as being properly signed and witnessed. If the will is deemed valid, it is accepted for probate.

Inventory and appraisal:

The executor or personal representative identifies and catalogs all the assets and debts of the deceased person’s estate. This may involve obtaining appraisals of certain assets to determine their value.

Debt settlement:

The estate’s debts and taxes are paid using the assets of the estate. This includes settling outstanding bills, notifying creditors, and addressing any valid claims against the estate.

Asset distribution:

Once the debts and taxes are settled, the remaining assets are distributed to the beneficiaries as outlined in the will or determined by the laws of intestacy.

Closing the estate:

After all the necessary steps have been completed, including filing the required reports and tax returns, the probate court approves the final distribution of assets and officially closes the estate.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that probate laws and procedures can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions have simplified or streamlined probate processes for small estates or offer alternatives to traditional probate, such as “small estate affidavits” or “transfer-on-death” designations. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in probate law can provide specific guidance based on the laws applicable in your jurisdiction.

The purpose of the probate proceeding is to obtain a Court’s confirmation that the decedent’s Will is valid, properly executed, and attests that the decedent was competent when making their decisions to distribute their property to designated individuals.
As well as establishing the validity of the Will, a probate proceeding will confirm that the nominated executor is authorized to act as the executor of the estate.

Yes, absolutely! Probate would be a required and mandatory step if the decedent executed a Will before their death. If there is a Will, there will necessarily be a probate proceeding before the Surrogate’s Court even if the Will is not contested or appears unambiguous on its face and sets clear directives. The named Executor is immediately ready and available to follow.
Whether your Will is poorly drafted and extracted from an internet website or whether a brilliant attorney drafts it, it will necessarily be subject to a probate proceeding!

It depends on your needs, objectives, and goals. Both a Will and a Trust Agreement are estate planning tools, but they serve different purposes. If they can work together or refer to one another in a logic of general estate planning, a Will and a Trust agreement remain very separate documents with significant differences.
The most apparent difference between a Trust and a Will is that a trust is effective upon its duly execution, as the grantor is alive. At the same time, a last will have effect only upon a testator’s death and proper probate proceeding.

It is essential to understand that a Will and a Trust are two distinct, separate legal documents with different objectives and purposes. However, they can be part of the same Estate Plan and functional together. Many of our clients ask us whether a Trust overrides a Will. Our simple answer is that Trust (specifically a revocable trust) is established during the settlor’s lifetime and is effective immediately upon its execution by the settlor. Trusts are effective before the decedent’s death, while a Will is only effective upon the decedent’s death. Thus, the Trust precedes when there is a conflict between a Will and a Trust.

A particular type of will called a “Pour-over Will” works simultaneously with a Trust instrument which refers to it. When the grantor who created the Trust failed or omitted to transfer some of their property to the Trust as they should have, a Pour-over Will gifts the remaining property specifically to the Trust, covering all estate assets in the Trust.
This type of Estate Planning can be of great utility.

The cost of estate planning in NYC can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your estate, the specific services you require, and the attorney or firm you choose to work with. In addition, depending on the attorney’s experience and expertise, estate planning costs can also vary.

Generally, estate planning services can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars in NYC. Simple estate planning documents, such as an essential will, power of attorney, and healthcare proxy, may cost on the lower end of the spectrum. However, the cost is likely to be higher if your estate is more complex and requires additional planning, such as trusts, tax planning, or business succession planning.

It’s essential to consult with several estate planning attorneys in NYC to obtain estimates and discuss their fee structures. For example, some attorneys charge a flat fee for estate planning services, while others may bill hourly. During your consultation, inquire about additional costs, such as filing fees or expenses related to executing the estate plan.

Remember that estate planning is an investment in the protection of your assets and the well-being of your loved ones. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize finding an experienced and reputable attorney who can provide quality guidance and ensure that your estate plan meets your needs and goals.

About Us

Morgan Legal Group is a trusted name in the legal industry, committed to excellence in Estate Planning, Probate, Family Law, and more. With a deep-rooted passion for helping our clients secure their futures and protect their legacies, our team of experienced attorneys combines expertise with a personalized approach. We’re dedicated to making the legal process accessible, understandable, and tailored to your unique needs. Discover the peace of mind that comes from partnering with Morgan Legal Group.

Your Trusted Estate Planning Partner in New York

Estate Planning Attorney NYC

CEO & Founder of Morgan Legal Group

Client Testimonials

Over 300+ 5-Star Reviews

Nicholas ClarkNicholas Clark
09:12 27 Sep 23
I unexpectedly lost my son, who served in the military on the East coast. While searching for a probate attorney I came across Russel Morgan. What impressed me about Russel was his response, expertise and impressive skills. He wasted no time. As the executor of my sons estate I wanted a lawyer who could provide transparency to my family and Russel proved to be a choice, from the beginning. He not only guided me in the direction but he also presented options that I wasn’t aware of. Additionally his fees were reasonable and fair. When I needed a CPA in NY Russel Morgan went above and beyond, by recommending a trusted CPA in the area. It has been truly enjoyable working with Russel. I send my wishes to him and his team.
Ruby CollinsRuby Collins
14:14 14 Sep 23
After my husband passed away I found myself in need of a lawyer who specializes in guardianship and probate cases. After going through feedback from clients I made the decision to trust Russel Morgan with my case. I am extremely grateful that I chose him because both Russel and his team showed a level of empathy throughout the process. Their knowledge and guidance made a challenging experience much smoother. They were always there to address any questions I had and consistently followed up promptly. Now that the probate process is finished it’s time for me to update my estate plan. Again Russels team has been incredibly supportive and helpful as they guide me through this process. I want to express my gratitude, to Russel Morgan and his team, for assisting me in creating this gift” for my loved ones.
Isaac CarrollIsaac Carroll
10:17 09 Sep 23
My wife and I would like to express our appreciation to Russel and his team for the work they accomplished. They were consistently attentive. Promptly addressed any questions or concerns we had. As a family our estate planning process was a bit more complex than usual. Russel and his staff made it incredibly easy. Russel exceeded our expectations. We consider ourselves fortunate to have found an attorney who genuinely cares about his clients. If you’re looking for a attorney who takes the time to educate you on estate planning we wholeheartedly endorse Russel Morgan and his team.
Charlie SnyderCharlie Snyder
14:35 01 Aug 23
We are extremely grateful that we chose to work with Russel and his team at Morgan Legal Group for our trust and estate planning needs. With numerous concerns and a strong desire to safeguard our two children and assets in the event of unforeseen circumstances, it was crucial for us to establish a comprehensive plan. Russel’s expertise and guidance made the entire process seamless and effortless. We wholeheartedly endorse this law office to anyone seeking assistance with estate planning. Thank you, Morgan Legal Group, for your ongoing support!
Lance FarrellLance Farrell
09:40 28 Jul 23
Russel has done an exceptional job handling our estate planning, ensuring that our daughter with special needs will be well provided for. He is highly responsive and takes proactive steps to move the process forward. Not only did he patiently address all of our inquiries, but he also ensured that we fully comprehended the procedures and available choices. The reassurance we have, knowing that our children will receive the necessary support to settle our estate seamlessly when the time comes, is truly invaluable.
Paula LeePaula Lee
08:16 26 Jul 23
Attorney Russel Morgan has provided advanced directives, power of attorney (POA), and estate planning services for both my partner and me, as well as for my deceased sister and my father and step-mother. He possesses a deep understanding of his practice, excels in educating clients about wills and trusts, and exhibits remarkable patience in addressing numerous inquiries. The services were rendered at a fixed rate, which we found preferable to an hourly fee. Russel transformed what initially appeared to be an overwhelming task into a manageable endeavor, even injecting moments of enjoyment along the way. I wholeheartedly urge others to take that crucial step, schedule an appointment, and embark on this essential journey of advance planning for the sake of protection and peace of mind.
Sophia HernandezSophia Hernandez
13:50 18 Jul 23
Russel is an invaluable asset for our clients! He possesses a down-to-earth nature, a compassionate attitude, and offers exceptional value at a reasonable price. Russel goes the extra mile by dedicating time to actively listen and explain concepts, ensuring that clients comprehend their specific needs and objectives. Unlike most attorneys who simply draft documents and conclude their involvement, Russel takes the initiative to accompany clients throughout the process. He not only prepares all necessary documents but also ensures that their estate plan is adequately funded and aligned with their current life circumstances. We highly endorse Russel and his team as the go-to choice for our clients’ estate planning requirements!
Rachel HaynesRachel Haynes
15:19 12 Jul 23
Russel Morgan and Morgan Legal Group are highly skilled estate planning attorneys who specialize in the areas of estate planning and elder law, including Medicaid and a little-known Veterans benefit for chronic care. Their expertise, values, and success are a direct result of their narrow focus on these specific areas, unlike other attorneys who may spread themselves too thin and lack mastery in any one area.Morgan Legal Group takes a personalized approach to each client’s unique situation and goals, creating customized plans from scratch rather than relying on generic online templates. Based on my personal and business experiences, I have the utmost confidence in their ability to help clients achieve their estate planning goals. I have seen firsthand the value they bring to me and my family, as well as many satisfied clients we have worked with together. I highly recommend Russel and his team at Morgan Legal Group for all your estate planning needs.
Drew McGaugheyDrew McGaughey
08:52 10 Jul 23
Morgan Legal Group has been our go-to for all of our estate planning needs for many years. So when it came time for my wife and I to create our wills, we knew exactly who to turn to. Morgan Legal Group made it simple for us to meet both virtually and in person. They took the time to explain every page and line in a way that was easy to understand. Their guidance gave us the confidence we needed to make informed decisions every step of the way. The final product is extremely professional and provides us with peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of for the future.
Harry HoustonHarry Houston
11:08 06 Jun 23
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Russel for his exceptional assistance with my guardianship case. From our initial phone conversation, he displayed a remarkable level of professionalism and helpfulness. I give him a perfect 10 out of 10 rating in every aspect, from his clear and understandable email communications to his prompt and thorough responses to all of my questions. Russel went above and beyond in his attentiveness and professionalism, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking legal support. Thank you so much, Russel!
Tyler NguyenTyler Nguyen
15:10 02 Jun 23
I recently worked with Morgan Legal Group for my estate planning needs, and let me tell you, they are top-notch! Their estate attorney walked me through the entire process with patience and clarity. They explained in simple terms what not to put into a living trust, ensuring that my assets were protected. The entire team, from the friendly receptionist to the knowledgeable lawyers, made me feel like family. If you’re looking for an estate planning attorney who knows their stuff, this is the way to go!
Dianna McdonaldDianna Mcdonald
06:16 09 May 23
We contacted Morgan Legal Group to update our Wills and Estate Plan, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with our experience. From start to finish, they were incredibly professional, communicative, and provided exceptional service. Their team evaluated our current situation and suggested revisions that were tailored to our specific needs. We truly appreciated their attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that everything was taken care of. Thank you so much for making this process so seamless and stress-free!
Elizabeth SawyerElizabeth Sawyer
09:22 08 May 23
I have had the good fortune of collaborating with Mr. Morgan and his team at Morgan Legal Group for the past couple of years. He has assisted me with real estate business setup, property closings, and estate planning. Mr. Morgan is an incredibly skilled and knowledgeable attorney who is always fair in his dealings. Whenever I need to reach out to him, I know that I will receive a great return on my investment. However, that’s not all that I rated him five stars for. Since I’ve known Mr. Morgan, he has become a friend, teacher, and an invaluable referral resource for any niche attorney services that I might need.
Barbara LoweryBarbara Lowery
14:42 03 May 23
Morgan Legal Group, led by Mr. Morgan, is an exceptional law firm. Mr. Morgan is a unique lawyer who truly cares about his clients. He went above and beyond to ensure that our needs were met and walked with us like family throughout the entire process. His competence and compassion are unmatched in the legal system, as he provided us with excellent legal advice in all of the situations we faced. We highly recommend Morgan Legal Group for anyone seeking a lawyer who truly cares about their clients’ well-being.
Irma TuckerIrma Tucker
13:46 03 Apr 23
When looking for a trust attorney near me, I came across these guys. Their team of attorneys were extremely helpful in explaining what assets should not be included in a living trust and what not to put into a revocable trust. I was indeed surprised with how easily they explained all the details. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a trustworthy and reliable trust attorney.
Tommy PaceTommy Pace
09:46 23 Mar 23
The estate planning costs at Morgan Legal Group were reasonable and transparent. Mr. Morgan provided me with a clear understanding of all costs associated with his services, ensuring that there were no surprises along the way. He was upfront and honest about all costs, and I felt comfortable knowing that I was getting quality services at a fair price.
Assetou CoulibalyAssetou Coulibaly
20:58 24 Jan 23
This office provided excellent service. I wanted help securing my valuables but was unsure to who I could entrust such an important task. I wholeheartedly endorse Russel and his team! Every step of the journey was stress-free, unpretentious, and instructive. It’s comforting to know that my valuables, and more importantly, the people I care about, will be protected. It feels good to have things all out and to know to who I can ask questions when they occur. Thank you for your reliability, guys.
Troy SimpsonTroy Simpson
08:12 02 Dec 22
Russel Morgan is my go-to estate planning attorney! My wife and I are big on trust, knowledge, and professionalism, and Russel and the team at Morgan Legal get an A ++ in all 3 facets. In addition, Russel was compassionate and sincere when dealing with us, he took all the time to make sure we understood the process and were comfortable with each statement. Pricing is very competitive, we never got a feeling we were overcharged or anything. Thank you for your hard work, guys, you did a fantastic job!!!
Dustin ClarkDustin Clark
13:55 30 Nov 22
The staff at Morgan Legal Group is very professional, polite, courteous, and helpful. They go above and beyond to make sure you are comfortable with the time of your appointment and can easily make any changes if needed despite their busy schedule. I also enjoyed working with Mr. Morgan. He is a true expert when it comes to estate planning. Would not hesitate to call him any time!
Dana RichardsDana Richards
13:00 23 Nov 22
Russel Morgan is fantastic to work with, especially when you have little idea about the process of estate planning. He is knowledgeable, and I think that this is his experience and pure understanding of the subject that allows him to explain each detail plainly. He makes an otherwise difficult subject as understandable as it can be and he made sure all our goals were put in writing. I highly recommend him. Very approachable.
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Questions And Answers

The cost of estate planning in NYC can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your estate, the specific services you require, and the attorney or firm you choose to work with. In addition, depending on the attorney’s experience and expertise, estate planning costs can also vary.

Generally, estate planning services can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars in NYC. Simple estate planning documents, such as an essential will, power of attorney, and healthcare proxy, may cost on the lower end of the spectrum. However, the cost is likely to be higher if your estate is more complex and requires additional planning, such as trusts, tax planning, or business succession planning.

It’s essential to consult with several estate planning attorneys in NYC to obtain estimates and discuss their fee structures. For example, some attorneys charge a flat fee for estate planning services, while others may bill hourly. During your consultation, inquire about additional costs, such as filing fees or expenses related to executing the estate plan.

Remember that estate planning is an investment in the protection of your assets and the well-being of your loved ones. Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize finding an experienced and reputable attorney who can provide quality guidance and ensure that your estate plan meets your needs and goals.

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed to their beneficiaries or heirs. It is a court-supervised procedure that validates and executes the instructions outlined in the deceased person’s will (if there is one) or determines the distribution of assets according to intestacy laws (when there is no will).

The primary goals of probate are to ensure the proper management of the deceased person’s estate, pay any outstanding debts or taxes owed by the estate, and ultimately transfer the assets to the rightful beneficiaries.

The probate process typically involves the following steps:

Filing the petition:

The process begins by filing a petition with the probate court in the jurisdiction where the deceased person resided at the time of their death. The petition seeks to open the probate proceedings and appoint an executor or personal representative to oversee the estate.

Notifying interested parties:

Notice is given to all beneficiaries named in the will, as well as to any creditors or other interested parties who may have a claim against the estate.

Validating the will:

If there is a will, the court examines its validity. This includes confirming that it meets the legal requirements, such as being properly signed and witnessed. If the will is deemed valid, it is accepted for probate.

Inventory and appraisal:

The executor or personal representative identifies and catalogs all the assets and debts of the deceased person’s estate. This may involve obtaining appraisals of certain assets to determine their value.

Debt settlement:

The estate’s debts and taxes are paid using the assets of the estate. This includes settling outstanding bills, notifying creditors, and addressing any valid claims against the estate.

Asset distribution:

Once the debts and taxes are settled, the remaining assets are distributed to the beneficiaries as outlined in the will or determined by the laws of intestacy.

Closing the estate:

After all the necessary steps have been completed, including filing the required reports and tax returns, the probate court approves the final distribution of assets and officially closes the estate.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that probate laws and procedures can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions have simplified or streamlined probate processes for small estates or offer alternatives to traditional probate, such as “small estate affidavits” or “transfer-on-death” designations. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in probate law can provide specific guidance based on the laws applicable in your jurisdiction.

It depends on your needs, objectives, and goals. Both a Will and a Trust Agreement are estate planning tools, but they serve different purposes. If they can work together or refer to one another in a logic of general estate planning, a Will and a Trust agreement remain very separate documents with significant differences.
The most apparent difference between a Trust and a Will is that a trust is effective upon its duly execution, as the grantor is alive. At the same time, a last will have effect only upon a testator’s death and proper probate proceeding.