Mr. Goodwin is everything you want in an attorney: professional, honest, thorough, and genuinely caring. He always explains things clearly, so I understood exactly what was happening and what to expect next. His attention to detail and persistence really stood out. Looking back, I feel lucky to have found him. He guided me through the whole process expertly, and I deeply appreciate all his hard work. Would definitely recommend him to anyone needing legal help.
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How Kinship is Litigated in New York City
Estate litigation over the relationship to the decedent is referred to as a “kinship proceedings.” Kinship proceedings can arise when a person dies without clear instructions on which specific persons benefit from their estate. This occurs when a person dies without a New York will (intestate) or when a New York will is unclear. If that happens, persons may prove that they related to the decedent in a way that entitles them to a portion of the estate. Disagreements do arise.
A common situation where a kinship proceeding arises is when someone leaves property to “my children” without specifying who those children are. This ambiguous designation leaves room for a dispute over who the decedent’s children actually are. The status of an existing child can be challenged. Or, a person previously unknown to the decedent’s family may claim to be the decedent’s child.
Kinship is a difficult aspect of estate litigation, as it presents many disputed facts and circumstances. Information about previous generations, unknown persons, or foreign subjects is often difficult to process and obtain. An experienced estate attorney is crucial to a successful outcome of such cases.
Call the Law Offices of Albert Goodwin at 212-233-1233 and make an appointment to discuss your kinship situation.
Law Offices of
Albert Goodwin, PLLC
31 W 34 Str, Suite 7058
New York, NY 10001
Tel. 212-233-1233
About the Author
Albert Goodwin, Esq. is a licenced New York attorney with over 15 years of courtroom experience. His extensive knowledge and expertise make him well-qualified to write authoritative articles on a wide range of legal topics.
