Some Hidden Dangers Of Having No Will In Place

Silence isn’t golden when it comes to your estate. When you don’t have a Will, you’re effectively giving a stranger the keys to your life’s work and your children’s future. It’s not just about money; it’s about control and clarity. Here are four hidden dangers of letting New York State decide what happens next:

  1. A Stranger Picks Your Children’s Guardian: Without your written instruction, a Judge (who has most likely never met your family) decides who will raise your minor children and who will handle their property.

  2. The Wrong Person in Charge: If you don’t have a Will naming an Executor, the court appoints an “Administrator” according to legal priority, not based on who you actually trust and may have chosen.

  3. The “Financial Limbo” Delay: Intestacy proceedings are notoriously slow. Your family could wait months for access to the funds they need for daily expenses.

  4. Fuel for Family Conflict: Ambiguity is a primary cause of estate litigation. A Will provides a clear voice when you aren’t there to speak, stopping “he-said, she-said” battles before they start.

The Bottom Line: Make sure you’re in control of your family’s future.

Selected excerpt(s), linked blog article and photo courtesy of Schwartz Ettenger, PLLC.

Don’t leave your legacy to chance. Reach out to Marci Goldfarb, Esq. at 631-777-2401 or email msg@selawny.com today to protect your family’s tomorrow.

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