Hon. Gail Prudenti featured in Newsday

We are inspired by our partner Hon. Gail Prudenti as she takes a stand on an issue that affects the legal community and the public at large. In her op-ed article featured in Newsday, Judge Prudenti eloquently argues against the mandatory retirement age of 70 for NY judges. Judge Prudenti's words are a testament to the wisdom and skill that experienced judges bring to the table, and the immense value they provide to our society. Her insights serve as a reminder that age is just a number, and that with age comes experience, knowledge, and a unique perspective that cannot be replaced. We can all learn from her example of advocating for fairness and equality in the workplace, and for recognizing and valuing the contributions of our seniors.

Click here to read Judge Prudenti's article episode →

A Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (“MAPT”) is a type of irrevocable trust designed to protect assets for the purpose of qualifying for Medicaid. In addition to long term care, another important estate planning issue to consider is the potential tax liability of highly appreciated assets and whether Section 1014 of the Internal Revenue Code can be used to achieve a step-up in basis to date of death value.

In general, when someone sells an asset that has appreciated in value, such as one’s home, the taxable gain is the difference between the sale price and the seller’s purchase price (i.e. tax basis). However, assets which are part of your gross estate at death enjoy a step-up in basis to date of death value. Assets in a MAPT do enjoy a step-up in basis so long as the grantor retains certain powers over the trust such that the trust assets are includable in the grantor’s taxable estate.

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July 18?/ 1 PM

Estate Planning Tools for Family Caregivers

Peconic Bay Medical Center Caregivers Center

1 Heroes Way

Riverhead, NY 11901

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Planning ahead allows for less stress and crisis, especially when caring for your loved one with health concerns.

?Please join our partner Britt Burner Esq. as she discusses the importance of estate planning. This workshop will help you to understand the purpose of a health care proxy, the roles of an agent, trustee and executor and aim to help family caregivers identify situations in which care plans or estate planning documents may need to change.

Register with the Caregivers Center at (631) 548-6259 or by email at [email protected] .

July 23?/ 6:30 PM

Protecting Assets: Should I Put My Home in a Trust?

Sachem Public Library

Community Room A

150 Holbrook Road

Holbrook, NY 11741

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Join our senior associate attorney, Brittni Sullivan, Esq. as she discusses how to protect assets, including property and second homes, the ways to reduce and eliminate taxes, and the importance of having a sound estate plan in place.

July 29?/ 1 PM

Virtual Event: Do I Need a Trust?

Presented by Shelter Island Public Library

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This presentation is taking place on Zoom.

Please our partner Britt Burner, Esq. for a discussion on estate planning with a focus on navigating trusts. In this session, we will explore the difference between a will and a trust, different types of trusts and using a trust for long term care planning.

July 30?/ 5:30 PM

Estate Planning vs. Guardianship

East Hampton Library

Baldwin Family Room

159 Main Street

East Hampton, NY 11937

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Join us as we gather to discuss the importance of Estate Planning documents and scenarios when a Guardianship is needed for a loved one or family member.

Learn the importance of having a Durable Power of Attorney and a Health Care Proxy in place as well as planning strategies to avoid Guardianship.

Embracing the journey of aging gracefully at home is not only a possibility but a desirable reality with the right support and environment.

Join us in an enlightening webinar featuring our esteemed partner, Britt Burner, Esq., as she delves into the crucial topic of Estate Planning for older adults. Discover the essential documents necessary for a secure future and gain insights into the intricate process of long-term care program applications, particularly Medicaid.

Join us as we raise awareness by going purple for Alzheimer's and Brain Health Month! Our staff will also be participating in the Alzheimer's Association 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, October 19 at the Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank.

Please walk with us to help find a cure! You can join our team, start your own or donate.

Click here for more information about the Walk to End Alzheimer's →