Trust & Estate Lawyer in Putnam County, NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced trust and estate representation in Putnam County, New York, handling wills, trusts, probate, and estate tax planning under NY Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL). Our firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. We serve Carmel, Brewster, and surrounding Hudson Valley communities.
In Putnam County, estate matters are handled through the Surrogate’s Court, with probate typically taking 12-24 months and New York imposing an estate tax on estates exceeding $7.35 million in 2026.
New York Trust & Estate Law
New York trust and estate law is primarily governed by the Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) and the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act (SCPA). These statutes define the legal framework for creating wills and trusts, appointing executors and administrators, probating estates, and administering trusts. 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, which is $7.35 million for 2026. A unique “cliff effect” means estates exceeding 105% of the exemption are taxed on the entire value, not just the excess.
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | New York State Legislature
Official New York Legal Resources
Putnam County Surrogate’s Court Process
Wills are probated through the Putnam County Surrogate’s Court. The court appoints an executor or administrator, issues citations to interested parties, and requires an inventory and accounting. Trust administration follows EPTL guidelines.
- File the original will and a petition for probate with the Putnam County Surrogate’s Court. Pay the required filing fee based on the estate’s value.
- The court will appoint an executor (if there is a will) or an administrator (if there is no will). The court issues letters testamentary or letters of administration.
- The court issues citations to all interested parties (heirs, beneficiaries, creditors) to notify them of the probate proceeding and their right to object.
- The executor must inventory all estate assets, manage them, pay valid debts and expenses, and file an inventory with the court.
- File a final accounting with the Surrogate’s Court. File federal (Form 706) and New York (Form ET-706) estate tax returns if required, due 9 months after death.
- After court approval of the accounting and payment of all taxes, distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries. File a receipt and release to close the estate.
Trust & Estate Consequences in New York
In Putnam County, failure to properly administer an estate or trust can lead to court removal of the fiduciary, financial surcharges, and frozen estate distributions during litigation.
| Issue | Classification | Court Action | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil Matter | Removal by Surrogate’s Court | Surcharge (repayment + interest) | Personal liability, attorney’s fees |
| Will Contest | Surrogate’s Court Proceeding | Estate frozen 12-24 months | High litigation costs | Family discord, potential intestacy |
| Missed NY Estate Tax Filing | Tax Penalty (Tax Law) | NY Tax Department assessment | Penalties + interest on tax due | Liens on estate assets, personal liability for executor |
| Invalid Will (Improper Execution) | Intestacy | Assets distributed per NY EPTL | Loss of intended beneficiary designations | Family conflict, increased administration costs |
Results may vary. The outcomes described are examples and depend on the specific facts of each case.
Firm Credentials & Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to trust and estate matters in Putnam County and across New York.
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Trust & Estate Lawyer Near Putnam County
Our New York location serves clients at Putnam County courts. We are accessible via I-87 (NYS Thruway), I-84, and the Taconic State Parkway.
We serve clients in 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.
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
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. However, New York has a ‘cliff effect’—if the taxable estate exceeds 105% of the exemption, the entire estate is taxed, not just the excess amount.
How long does probate take in Putnam County Surrogate’s Court?
Probate typically takes 12 to 24 months in Putnam County Surrogate’s Court. The timeline depends on estate complexity, creditor claims, and whether any will contests or disputes arise among beneficiaries.
What are the executor’s fees in New York?
Executor fees in New York are set by statute (SCPA § 2307). They are calculated as a percentage of the estate’s value: 5% on the first $100,000, 4% on the next $200,000, 3% on the next $700,000, and so on.
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 available, but interest accrues on any unpaid tax from the original due date.
What happens if someone contests a will in New York?
If a will is contested, the Surrogate’s Court will freeze estate distributions pending litigation. The contestant must file objections, and the court will hold hearings. Will contests can take 12-24 months to resolve.
Related Legal Services
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-20. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.