Trust & Estate Lawyer in Putnam County, NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced trust and estate representation in Putnam County, handling wills, trusts, probate, and estate administration under New York Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL). Our firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your estate planning needs. We serve Carmel, Brewster, Cold Spring, Mahopac, and surrounding Putnam County communities.
New York Trust & Estate Law
New York trust and estate matters are governed primarily 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 Putnam County.
Key provisions include EPTL Article 3 (rules for wills), EPTL Article 7 (trust creation and administration), and SCPA Article 23 (executor and administrator commissions). New York also imposes a state estate tax with a $7.35 million exemption for 2026 under Tax Law § 951 et seq., featuring a unique “cliff effect” where estates exceeding 105% of the exemption are taxed on the entire value.
Last verified: March 2026 | Putnam County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official New York Legal Resources
For the complete text of New York estate laws, consult these official government resources:
Putnam County Estate Administration Process
Estate matters in Putnam County are handled through the Surrogate’s Court. The process involves specific local procedures that can impact timelines and outcomes.
Understanding the local court requirements is essential for efficient estate administration:
- File the original will and petition for probate with the Putnam County Surrogate’s Court. Pay the required filing fee based on estate value.
- The court will issue letters testamentary (if there’s a will) or letters of administration (if no will) to appoint the executor or administrator.
- Serve citations on all interested parties as required by law. Publish notice to creditors in a local Putnam County newspaper.
- Prepare an inventory of all estate assets. Pay valid creditor claims and administrative expenses from estate funds.
- File federal and New York estate tax returns if required. Prepare and file accountings with the Surrogate’s Court for court approval.
- After court approval of accountings and payment of all taxes, distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws.
Trust & Estate Consequences in New York
In Putnam County, trust and estate matters involve significant financial consequences including New York estate tax rates of 3.06-16% on taxable estates over $7.35 million, with a “cliff effect” taxing the entire estate if it exceeds 105% of the exemption.
| Issue | Legal Classification | Financial Impact | Timeline Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Will Contest | Surrogate’s Court Proceeding | Estate frozen during litigation | 12-24 months additional | Legal fees, family conflict, potential intestacy |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | SCPA Article 23 violation | Surcharge, removal, personal liability | 6-18 months litigation | Loss of executor commission, court supervision |
| Missed Estate Tax Filing | Tax Law § 954 violation | Penalties up to 25% + interest | Extended administration | Personal liability for executor, tax liens |
| Invalid Will Provisions | EPTL Article 3 defect | Partial or complete intestacy | 6-12 months correction | Unexpected distribution, family disputes |
Results may vary. Each estate matter depends on specific facts, asset types, family dynamics, and court procedures.
Our Trust & Estate Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to trust and estate matters in Putnam County and throughout New York.
We understand the details of New York estate law, including the unique “cliff effect” in the state estate tax system and the procedural requirements of Putnam County Surrogate’s Court. Our approach focuses on thorough planning, precise document preparation, and diligent administration to protect your legacy and minimize tax liabilities.
Global advocacy. Local precision. We apply our extensive experience to the specific requirements of Putnam County estate matters while maintaining a full understanding of multi-state and international estate planning considerations when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New York estate tax exemption for 2026?
The New York estate tax exemption is $7.35 million for 2026. New York has a ‘cliff effect’ where estates exceeding 105% of the exemption are taxed on the entire estate value, not just the excess amount.
How long does probate take in Putnam County Surrogate’s Court?
Probate in Putnam County typically takes 12-24 months. Smaller estates under $50,000 may use an expedited small estate affidavit process. Will contests or complex administrations can extend this timeline.
What are the executor commission rates in New York?
Executor commissions in New York are statutory under SCPA § 2307. The rate is graduated based on estate value: 5% on the first $100,000, 4% on the next $200,000, 3% on the next $700,000, and 2.5% on amounts above $1 million.
When is the New York estate tax return due?
The New York estate tax return (Form ET-706) is due 9 months after the date of death. Extensions may be requested, but any tax due must be paid by the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest.
What happens if someone contests a will in Putnam County?
If a will is contested in Putnam County, the Surrogate’s Court will freeze estate distributions pending litigation. The contestant must file objections, and the court will schedule hearings to determine the will’s validity, which can take 12-24 months.
Our Approach to Trust & Estate Matters
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved favorable outcomes in estate matters through careful planning, precise document preparation, and diligent administration. Our firm-wide experience across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC informs our approach to Putnam County estate cases.
Results may vary. Each estate matter depends on specific facts, asset types, family dynamics, and court procedures.
Putnam County Trust & Estate Lawyer Near You
Our New York location serves clients at Putnam County courts. We represent individuals and families throughout Carmel, Brewster, Cold Spring, Mahopac, Putnam Valley, Kent, Patterson, and surrounding Hudson Valley communities.
Trust and estate lawyer near Putnam County Surrogate’s Court. Accessible via I-87 (NYS Thruway), I-84, I-287, Taconic State Parkway, and Route 9.
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
Related Legal Services
Our firm provides full legal representation across multiple practice areas:
- New York Trust & Estate Lawyer – Statewide hub page
- Albany County Trust & Estate Lawyer – Serving nearby locality
- Putnam County Business Lawyer – Business succession planning
- Putnam County Civil Litigation Lawyer – Estate and fiduciary litigation
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile – Learn more about our founding attorney
- New York Law Office Location – Contact our New York location
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance specific to your situation.