A Neighborhood Firm with a National Perspective


Estate Planning

Will & Trust Creation


You work hard for your family, so knowing that you have planned for their long-term will being and financial security can bring comfort.  The professionals at Lugara PLLC thoroughly analyze your long-term goals and your estate in order to develop a strategy to transfer assets while minimizing tax implications, providing for and protecting your family, and supporting philanthropic causes.


A proper estate plan provides you the opportunity to protect your wealth, distribute your property, establish care for your children and otherwise express your wishes upon your death.  Without a proper plan in please, a Court may determine how your property is distributed, who cares for your children, and even what happens to your pet - making decisions that might not reflect your desires.


Whether you are planning the parameters of your future medical care or establishing support for loved ones upon your death, Lugara PLLC can help with all aspects of your estate issues, including:


  • Revocable & Irrevocable Trusts
  • Medicaid Planning
  • Last Will & Testament
  • Estate Tax Issues



  • Living Wills
  • Health Care Proxies
  • Powers of Attorney

Probate & Administration

Estate Settlement & Distribution of Assets


The professionals at Lugara PLLC are able to draw upon their extensive knowledge of New York's probate laws to guide you through the complex process of settling an estate.  Whether the matter involves a probate (where a person died with a will) or an administration (where a person died without a will), Lugara PLLC is able to assist in all steps of the process, including:


  • Creation of a plan of action to probate/administer the estate
  • Submission of all required Surrogate Court filings
  • Valuation of the Estate
  • Paying taxes & other debts




Probate Disputes


When a dispute arises between beneficiaries, it is important to have a firm on your side that has the experience and confidence to protect your interests.  Lugara PLLC possesses the knowledge to challenge invalid wills or defend valid wills against the improper assertions of dissatisfied beneficiaries; ensure that the fiduciaries charged with protecting and distributing the estate's assets are properly performing their duties; and guard against improper claims from creditors and others seeking to claim an interest in the assets.  Skillful in mediation and litigation, Lugara PLLC can negotiate between beneficiaries to preserve relationships or fastidiously pursue your rights in court when necessary.

  • Locating beneficiaries
  • Managing & liquidating assets as appropriate
  • Transferring assets from the deceased to the estate
  • Closing & opening bank and investment accounts