THIS BOOK ANSWERS THE QUESTIONS FOR NEW YORK RESIDENTS

IF I BECOME INCAPACITATED...

• How can I pay for my health care?
• Avoid guardianship?
• Appoint someone to make my medical decisions?

What is required in order to qualify for Medicaid in New York?

• How can I avoid Probate?
• Provide for the transfer of my business?
• Provide for the care of my minor child?
• Protect my assets?
• CAN I AVOID PROBATE WITHOUT A WILL OR A TRUST?

INTRODUCTION

Over the years, as we practiced law, we noticed that the questions people have about Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, avoiding probate and guardianship, preserving assets, providing health care for themselves and their families, are much the same client to client. Many people are concerned about who will control their finances should they become too aged or ill to do so themselves. And of even more concern is their health care:

• Who will make my medical decision if I can't do so myself?
• How can I pay for my health care?
• How much and what type of insurance should I have?
• How can I avoid guardianship?

Others worry about the care of family members. Those with minor children worry:

• Who will care for my minor child if I become incapacitated or die?
• Is there a way to make sure my child has enough money to see him through college?

Those with elderly parents worry:

• How can I manage my parent's finances should my parent be unable to care for himself?
• If my parent dies, will I need to go through Probate?
• Is there a way to avoid Probate?

We agreed that a book answering such questions would be of service to the general public. We wish to thank all of the clients, whom we have had the honor and pleasure to serve, for providing us with the impetus to write this book.