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 NY Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL). The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses a case-specific approach for clients in Carmel, Brewster, and Mahopac. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
In Putnam County, estate matters are handled in the Surrogate’s Court, with probate typically taking 12-24 months. New York has a $6.94 million estate tax exemption for 2026, but a “cliff” effect taxes the entire estate if it exceeds 105% of the limit.
New York Trust & Estate Law
New York trust and estate law is governed primarily by the Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA). These statutes outline the legal framework for creating wills and trusts, appointing executors and trustees, administering estates through probate, and resolving disputes among beneficiaries. The New York estate tax, under Tax Law § 951 et seq., applies a graduated rate from 3.06% to 16% on taxable estates exceeding the exemption amount.
Last verified: March 2026 | Putnam County Supreme Court | NY Senate EPTL
Official Legal Resources
Estate Administration Process in Putnam County
The Surrogate’s Court in Putnam County oversees all probate and estate administration. The process begins with filing the original will and a petition. The court then issues letters testamentary to the appointed executor.
- File the petition for probate and the original will with the Putnam County Surrogate’s Court.
- Receive letters testamentary from the court, granting legal authority to act as executor.
- Notify all heirs and creditors by publishing a notice and serving formal citations.
- Inventory all estate assets, manage property, and pay valid debts and expenses.
- File required federal and New York estate tax returns within nine months of the date of death.
- Prepare a final accounting for court approval, then distribute assets and close the estate.
Penalties and Consequences
In Putnam County, failure to properly administer an estate or breaches of fiduciary duty can lead to surcharges, removal, and personal liability for the executor or trustee.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Will Contest | Lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud | Estate distribution frozen during litigation (12-24 months) |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Failure to act in beneficiaries’ best interest | Surcharge (monetary penalty), removal as executor/trustee |
| NY Estate Tax Non-Compliance | Taxable estate over $6.94M (2026) | Tax on entire estate (3.06%-16%) plus penalties & interest |
| Improper Probate Filing | SCPA procedural requirements | Delays in appointment, additional hearings, legal costs |
Results may vary. Each estate’s circumstances are unique.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to trust and estate matters. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Putnam County Representation
Our New York location serves clients at Putnam County courts. We are accessible via I-84, I-87 (NYS Thruway), and the Taconic State Parkway.
Trust & Estate lawyer near Carmel, NY serving the communities of Carmel, Brewster, Cold Spring, Mahopac, Putnam Valley, Kent, and Patterson.
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 valued under this amount generally owe no NY estate tax. However, New York has a ‘cliff’ effect: if the estate exceeds 105% of the exemption, the entire estate is taxed, not just the excess.
How long does probate take in Putnam County Surrogate’s Court?
Probate in Putnam County typically takes 12 to 24 months. The timeline depends on estate complexity, creditor claims, and whether any will contests arise. Small estates under $50,000 may use an expedited affidavit process.
What happens if someone contests a will in New York?
A will contest freezes estate distribution. The Surrogate’s Court will hold proceedings to determine the will’s validity. Grounds include lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution. The process can add 12-24 months to administration.
What are the executor’s fees in New York?
Executor fees in New York are set by statute (SCPA § 2307). The fee is a percentage of the estate assets received and paid out. It is typically: 5% on the first $100,000, 4% on the next $200,000, 3% on the next $700,000, and so on.
Do I need a lawyer to probate a will in Putnam County?
While not legally required, the Surrogate’s Court process involves complex petitions, citations, accountings, and legal notices. An experienced estate lawyer ensures compliance with NY EPTL and SCPA, avoids procedural delays, and protects the executor from personal liability.
Related Legal Information
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.