More than 77% of American adults over the age of 50 want to remain in their homes rather than move to assisted living or long-term care facilities, according to a recent AARP survey. However, the cost of rent makes it difficult for many aging New Yorkers to remain in...

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Can you protect your aging loved one from abuse?
Relying on a nursing home facility in New York to care for your aging loved one can alleviate some of your caretaking responsibilities. However, you have to trust that caretakers will provide humane treatment. Abuse at the hands of caregivers can damage self-esteem,...
How to adopt your stepchildren
Stepparents in New York state do not have automatic parental rights to their stepchildren. Unfortunately, divorcing your spouse can lead to a painful end to the close bond you share with your stepchild. Fortunately, adoption is a way to ensure you remain in your...
Can you file for an uncontested joint divorce in New York?
Divorce is never a one-size-fits-all process. You might undergo a very different set of procedures depending on if your divorce is collaborative, contested or uncontested. Starting in March of 2022, the New York courts allow filing through the Uncontested Joint...
What to look for in a guardian for your child
As a parent, keeping your child safe and secure is one of the top priorities. Naming a guardian to care for the child in the event both parents die should be part of every parent's estate planning process. Considering someone else to care for your child is never easy,...
Establishing an Article 17-A guardianship in New York
When you live in New York and have a loved one with an intellectual or developmental disability, you may question that individual’s ability to make sound decisions regarding his or her own medical care, financial situation and other personal affairs. In some cases,...
What you need to know about Article 81 guardianship
Adults generally have the right and responsibility to make decisions for themselves and to manage their own affairs. However, some adults are unable to do so due to incapacitation. Under these circumstances, an individual can file for the appointment of a guardian for...
Is a relative a good choice for your executor?
As an estate plan creator, you need to have an executor in place. This is one of the most - if not the absolute most - crucial figures in your entire estate plan. To that end, you may automatically want to assign one of your closest family members to the spot. But is...
What New York considers when awarding spousal maintenance
When you and your New York husband or wife decide to part ways, you may question if you make enough money to support yourself without your ex. If you have serious concerns about being able to maintain the same lifestyle you enjoy now after a divorce, it may serve you...
What are problems seniors may have with their finances?
Getting older means a person could have greater difficulty handling important tasks like keeping up with personal finances. If you have aging parents, you should watch for signs that your mother or father may need help with paying bills and keeping track of money. It...