Trust & Estate Lawyer in Kings County (Brooklyn), NY
New York Trust & Estate Law
New York trust and estate law involves wills, trusts, probate, estate administration, and tax planning under NY Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA). The New York estate tax applies to estates exceeding $6.94 million in 2026, with rates from 3.06% to 16% (NY Tax Law § 951). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, handles these matters in Kings County Surrogate’s Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Kings County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official New York Trust & Estate Resources
Kings County Surrogate’s Court Procedures
Wills are probated through Kings County Surrogate’s Court. The court appoints an executor or administrator. A citation is issued to interested parties. Inventory and accounting are required. Trust administration follows EPTL guidelines.
- File the will and petition for probate with Kings County Surrogate’s Court.
- Serve citation to all heirs, beneficiaries, and interested parties.
- The court appoints an executor (with will) or administrator (no will).
- Inventory estate assets and pay valid debts and expenses.
- File New York estate tax return if estate exceeds $6.94 million.
- Distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries and file final accounting.
New York Trust & Estate Penalties and Consequences
In Kings County (Brooklyn), trust and estate matters involve significant financial consequences including estate taxes up to 16%, executor surcharges for breaches of duty, and will contests that can freeze estate distributions for years.
| Issue | Classification | Financial Impact | Timeline Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estate Tax Liability | NY Tax Law § 951 | 3.06%-16% of taxable estate | Return due 9 months after death |
| Will Contest | EPTL Challenge | Legal fees, frozen assets | 12-24 months litigation |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | SCPA § 2307 | Surcharge, removal, personal liability | Varies by complexity |
| Probate Delays | Standard Procedure | Executor commission 2%-5% | 12-24 months typical |
Results may vary. Each estate matter depends on specific facts and circumstances.
Trust & Estate Experience in Brooklyn
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has 120+ years of combined attorney experience. The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with extensive knowledge of New York estate law. With 4,739+ case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, the firm brings substantial experience to Kings County trust and estate matters. Global advocacy. Local precision.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. The firm’s favorable outcome rate is 93%+ based on historical data.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Trust & Estate Lawyer Near Kings County (Brooklyn)
Our New York location serves clients at Kings County (Brooklyn) courts, accessible via BQE (I-278), Atlantic Ave, Flatbush Ave, and Belt Pkwy. We represent clients throughout Brooklyn including Downtown, Williamsburg, Park Slope, DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights, Bushwick, Crown Heights, Flatbush, Bay Ridge, Bed-Stuy, Bensonhurst, Coney Island, Brownsville, and Sunset Park.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New York estate tax exemption amount?
The New York estate tax exemption is $6.94 million for 2026. Estates exceeding 105% of this amount are taxed on the entire estate, not just the excess, due to the ‘cliff’ effect (NY Tax Law § 951).
How long does probate take in Kings County Surrogate’s Court?
Probate in Kings County typically takes 12-24 months. A small estate affidavit can expedite the process for estates under $50,000. Will contests can extend the timeline significantly.
What are the executor’s commission rates in New York?
Executor commissions in New York are statutory under SCPA § 2307. The rate is calculated on a sliding scale based on the estate’s value, typically ranging from 2% to 5%.
What happens if someone contests a will in Brooklyn?
If a will is contested in Kings County Surrogate’s Court, the estate is frozen during litigation. The court will hear evidence on grounds like undue influence or lack of capacity before ruling.
When is a New York estate tax return due?
A New York estate tax return (Form ET-706) is due 9 months after the date of death. Extensions may be available, but interest accrues on any unpaid tax from the original due date.
Related Legal Resources
- New York Trust & Estate Lawyer — State hub page
- Albany County Trust & Estate Lawyer — Sibling locality
- Business Lawyer in Kings County (Brooklyn) — Related practice area
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.