Trust & Estate Lawyer in Richmond County (Staten Island), NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced trust and estate representation in Richmond County (Staten Island), New York. Estate planning and probate matters in New York are governed by NY Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA). The firm handles wills, trusts, probate administration, and estate litigation. Our New York location serves clients throughout Staten Island by appointment only.
New York has a unique estate tax “cliff” where estates exceeding 105% of the $6.94 million exemption are taxed on the entire value, not just the excess amount.
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. The New York estate tax, under Tax Law § 951 et seq., applies to estates exceeding $6.94 million in 2026 with rates from 3.06% to 16%.
Last verified: March 2026 | Richmond County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official New York Legal Resources
For the complete text of New York estate laws: NY Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (official New York State Legislature). For Richmond County court procedures: Richmond County Supreme Court website (official .gov domain).
Richmond County Estate Procedures
Wills are probated through the Richmond County Surrogate’s Court located at 18 Richmond Terrace in Staten Island. The court appoints executors or administrators, issues citations to interested parties, and oversees the inventory and accounting process. Trust administration follows EPTL requirements.
- File the will and petition for probate with Richmond County Surrogate’s Court.
- Serve citations to all heirs, beneficiaries, and potential creditors.
- Prepare and file a detailed inventory of estate assets.
- Address creditor claims and file required tax returns.
- Submit final accounting and distribute assets to beneficiaries.
New York Estate Tax & Penalties
In Richmond County, estate administration involves statutory executor commissions, potential estate taxes, and fiduciary responsibilities with significant financial consequences for errors.
| Matter | Classification | Timeline | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Probate Administration | Judicial Proceeding | 12-24 months | Executor commissions: 5% on first $100k (SCPA § 2307) | Court supervision of all transactions |
| Estate Tax | Tax Liability | Return due 9 months after death | 3.06%-16% on estates over $6.94M | “Cliff” effect taxes entire estate if over 105% of exemption |
| Will Contest | Litigation | 12-24 months | Estate frozen during litigation | Potential surcharge or removal of fiduciary |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil Action | Varies | Surcharge for losses | Removal as executor/trustee |
Results may vary. Each estate matter has unique facts affecting outcomes.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings combined legal experience of over 120 years to trust and estate matters. Our approach focuses on thorough preparation and understanding of New York’s unique estate tax laws and Surrogate’s Court procedures.
Case Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled trust and estate matters across multiple jurisdictions. Our attorneys understand the procedural requirements of New York Surrogate’s Courts and the details of estate tax planning.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for similar outcomes in future matters.
Local Estate Planning Services
Our New York location serves clients at Richmond County (Staten Island) courts. We represent individuals and families throughout Staten Island communities including St. George, New Dorp, Tottenville, Great Kills, Stapleton, and Port Richmond. Trust and estate lawyer near Richmond County Surrogate’s Court. 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
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
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.
How long does probate take in Richmond County Surrogate’s Court?
Probate typically takes 12-24 months in Richmond County. Small estates under $50,000 can use an expedited affidavit process.
What happens if someone contests a will in New York?
The estate is frozen during litigation, which can last 12-24 months. Grounds include lack of capacity, undue influence, or improper execution under NY Estates, Powers and Trusts 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, 2.5% on next $4 million, and 2% on amounts over $5 million.
When is the New York estate tax return due?
The NY estate tax return (Form ET-706) is due 9 months after the date of death. Extensions may be available with proper filing.
Related Legal Services
For more information about estate planning in New York, visit our New York Trust & Estate Lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby counties including Albany County and Broome County. For other legal needs in Staten Island, consider business law or civil litigation services. Learn more about Mr. Sris’s background and experience.
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.