Trust & Estate Lawyer in Queens County (Queens), NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced trust and estate representation in Queens County, New York. Estate planning and probate matters in Queens are governed by New York Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA). The firm handles wills, trusts, estate administration, and Surrogate’s Court proceedings throughout Queens communities.
New York Trust & Estate Law
New York trust and estate matters are primarily governed by the Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA). These statutes establish the legal framework for wills, trusts, probate, estate administration, and fiduciary duties in Queens County.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings extensive experience to New York estate matters, including complex probate proceedings and estate planning strategies.
Last verified: March 2026 | Queens County Surrogate’s Court | New York State Legislature
Official New York Estate Law Resources
For official New York estate law information, consult these government resources:
Queens County Estate Procedures
Trust and estate matters in Queens County are handled through the Surrogate’s Court. Wills are probated through this court, which appoints executors or administrators to manage estates.
- File the will and petition: Submit the original will and petition for probate to the Queens County Surrogate’s Court.
- Serve citations to interested parties: Issue citations to all heirs, beneficiaries, and other interested parties as required by law.
- Appoint executor or administrator: The court will appoint an executor (if named in will) or administrator (if no will) to manage the estate.
- Prepare inventory and accounting: File an inventory of estate assets and periodic accountings with the Surrogate’s Court.
- Pay debts and taxes: Settle valid creditor claims and file required federal and New York estate tax returns.
- Distribute remaining assets: Distribute remaining estate assets to beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws.
New York Estate Tax and Penalties
In Queens County, New York estate tax applies to estates exceeding $6.94 million with rates from 3.06% to 16%, and executor commissions are statutory under SCPA § 2307.
| Matter | Classification | Timeline | Fees/Commissions | Tax Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Probate | Court proceeding | 12-24 months | Court filing fees based on estate value | Estate tax if over $6.94M |
| Will Contest | Litigation | 12-24 months | Legal fees, court costs | Estate frozen during litigation |
| Estate Administration | Fiduciary duty | 9-18 months | Executor commissions: 5% on first $100,000 | NY estate tax return due 9 months after death |
| Trust Administration | Private arrangement | Varies | Trustee fees negotiable | Income tax on trust earnings |
Results may vary. Each estate matter has unique factors affecting timeline and outcome.
Trust & Estate Experience in Queens County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings combined legal experience of over 120 years to trust and estate matters. The firm has handled numerous estate planning and probate cases throughout New York.
Mr. Sris, the founding attorney, is admitted to practice in New York and multiple other jurisdictions. He provides strategic guidance on New York estate tax planning, will drafting, and Surrogate’s Court proceedings.
Case Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience handling trust and estate matters. The firm’s attorneys have successfully represented clients in estate planning, probate administration, and Surrogate’s Court proceedings.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Queens County Trust & Estate Lawyer Near You
Our New York location serves clients at Queens County courts. We represent clients throughout Queens communities including Jamaica, Flushing, Astoria, Long Island City, Forest Hills, Bayside, Jackson Heights, Rego Park, Elmhurst, Woodside, Corona, Rockaway Beach, Howard Beach, Ozone Park, and Fresh Meadows.
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 value, not just the excess. This “cliff effect” means careful planning is essential for estates near the threshold.
How long does probate take in Queens County Surrogate’s Court?
Probate typically takes 12-24 months in Queens County. Small estates under $50,000 can use an expedited affidavit process. Complex estates with disputes or tax issues may take longer to fully administer through the court.
What happens if someone contests a will in New York?
The estate is frozen during litigation. The Surrogate’s Court will hear evidence on validity grounds like undue influence or lack of capacity. Contestants must have standing as interested parties under New York law.
What are the executor commission rates in New York?
Executor commissions are statutory under SCPA § 2307. Rates are: 5% on first $100,000, 4% on next $200,000, 3% on next $700,000, and 2.5% on amounts over $1 million. These commissions are subject to court approval.
When is the New York estate tax return due?
The New York estate tax return is due 9 months after the date of death. Extensions may be available with proper filing. The tax rates range from 3.06% to 16% on taxable estates exceeding the exemption amount.
Related Legal Resources
New York Trust & Estate Lawyer – Our state hub page for New York estate law information.
Albany County Trust & Estate Lawyer – Estate planning services in Albany County.
Queens County Business Lawyer – Business law services in Queens County.
Mr. Sris Attorney Profile – Learn more about our founding attorney.
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.