Mediation in Adult Guardianship Matters
While alternative dispute resolution has been successful in Surrogate’s Courts, Article 81 guardianship proceedings present unique challenges relating to an alleged incapacitated person. Read the PDF of the article published in the New York Law... »
Ask an Attorney FAQ: Prepare for an Emergency. Get Access to Your College-Age Child's Healthcare Information
As published in Alison's monthly Ask An Attorney column in New York Parentingby Alison Arden Besunder, Esq.  Q: My 17-year-old daughter is off to college this fall, and will turn 18 in December. I want to make sure that I am the one to make decisions for her if something happens, and also to make... »
Ask An Attorney FAQ: Ex-pat Estate Planning: Five Things Non-US Citizens With Children Should Consider
As published in Alison's monthly Ask An Attorney column in New York Parentingby Alison Arden Besunder, Esq.  Q: My wife and I are not U.S. citizens, but I have been living in the U.S. for 15 years. One of our three children was born in Italy, but the other two were born here and... »
Making Sense of a Power of Attorney--What It Covers, What It Doesn't, And What You Need to Watch Out For
Q: My mother (now 77 years old) made me the primary agent under her power of attorney. It’s a ten-page document and very confusing.  What am I legally permitted and/or obligated to do?  What is my legal exposure if I act on her behalf? A: This is a question... »
Considering Getting a Dog for the Holidays? Here are a Few Things to Think About First.
Are you considering getting a family dog this holiday season? Or perhaps gifting a dog to an elderly family member or friend with the best of intentions, i.e. to give them companionship? While New York City may be one of the friendlier dog cities in the U.S., with off-leash... »
Guardianship of Minors: Frequently Asked Questions
Q:  I have a Last Will and Testament which states who should become the guardian of my young children if my husband and I are both deceased, but I have heard that probate can be a long and drawn out proceeding.  Is there something I can do to protect... »