Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning & Administration

Planning your Estate in New York?
Here's What You Need to Know.

Serving Dutchess, Ulster, Orange, Putnam, Columbia, Green & the greater Hudson Valley.

Understanding Estate Planning in New York

Estate planning is not only about protecting your assets—it’s about protecting your loved ones and ensuring your wishes are respected. Whether you’re drafting a health care proxy, preparing a living will, creating a power of attorney, or drafting a simple will, these documents give you control over critical decisions and provide peace of mind for your family.

Without proper planning, the State of New York may determine how your assets are distributed and who makes decisions on your behalf. This can create unnecessary stress, conflict, and uncertainty for your family. With the right legal guidance, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your future.

At McCabe, Coleman, Ventosa & Patterson, we’ve helped clients across Poughkeepsie, Red Hook, Carmel, Kingston, and throughout the Hudson Valley establish strong estate plans. Our experienced attorneys know how to navigate New York’s laws, protect your interests, and create a plan tailored to your needs.

Key Estate Planning Documents in New York

Estate planning involves preparing essential legal documents that safeguard your wishes and provide clarity for your loved ones. Each tool serves a specific purpose, and together, they create a strong foundation for protecting your future.

Document Purpose Key Benefits
Health Care Proxy Appoints someone you trust to make medical decisions if you are unable. Ensures your wishes are honored and prevents family disputes.
Living Will States your preferences for medical treatment in advance. Provides clear guidance on life support, resuscitation, and other treatments.
Power of Attorney Grants authority to another person to manage your financial affairs. Allows continuity in managing bills, property, and legal matters.
Simple Will Directs how your property and assets will be distributed after death. Protects your family, names guardians for minor children, and avoids disputes.

Additional Considerations

Without these documents, New York State laws determine who makes decisions and how your estate is handled. This can result in outcomes that may not reflect your wishes and could create unnecessary conflict.

At McCabe, Coleman, Ventosa & Patterson, we provide experienced guidance to help you prepare the right combination of estate planning documents, tailored to your circumstances and goals.

Common Questions About Estate Planning

Yes. An estate plan ensures your wishes are respected, your family is protected, and your assets are distributed according to your instructions—not state law.

If you die without a will, New York law decides who inherits your property. This may not reflect your wishes and can cause unnecessary stress and disputes among your loved ones.

You should choose someone you trust completely to make medical or financial decisions on your behalf. This person should be responsible, reliable, and able to act in your best interest.

Absolutely. Life changes—such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or significant financial shifts—often require updates to your estate plan to ensure it still reflects your goals.

The best step is to meet with an experienced estate planning attorney. At McCabe, Coleman, Ventosa & Patterson, we’ll guide you through your options, prepare the right documents, and tailor a plan to fit your needs.

Why Choose Us for Your Estate Planning Needs?

Extensive Experience

We’ve guided countless individuals and families across the Hudson Valley through the estate planning process, from drafting wills to establishing powers of attorney and health care proxies

Local Knowledge

Our attorneys understand New York State’s estate laws and local court procedures, ensuring your documents are legally sound and tailored to your situation.

Comprehensive Guidance

We provide a full range of estate planning services—including wills, living wills, health care proxies, and powers of attorney—so every aspect of your future is protected.

Personalized Approach

We recognize that every family’s needs are unique. Our team takes the time to understand your goals and craft a plan that reflects your wishes with clarity and precision.

Compassionate Representation

We approach estate planning with sensitivity and care, helping you make important decisions with confidence and peace of mind.

Reviews for Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning & Administration

Clelia Cassel

from Google Reviews

It was a pleasant experience having my Estate Planning done by
McCabe, Coleman, Ventosa & Patterson PLLC.
John Ventosa made the legal terminology easier to understand and less intimidating. Rachel’s efficient drafting of the documents helped meet the delivery request of 30 to 60 days. All documents were signed and delivered exactly on the 30th day. I couldn’t have been happier.

Melinda Sefcik

from Google Reviews

I recently had the pleasure of working with McCabe, Coleman, Ventosa & Patterson PLLC. I am profoundly grateful that our paths crossed. They provided excellent support and guidance during an emotional time for me and my family. John and the firm’s commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of justice made such a meaningful impact on my case. I truly appreciated the advocacy, dedication, and professionalism shown throughout the entire process. The administrative staff was equally impressive, handling everything efficiently and with a warm, respectful demeanor. From start to finish, the entire team made me feel valued. If you’re looking for a firm that combines professionalism with outstanding results, this is the one to choose!

Michael Coffey

from Google Reviews

Steven Patterson Esq. went above and beyond for me, treating me like a client/friend every step of the way through my FREE consultation. He provided me with essential legal advice and expecting nothing in return—I can only imagine how dedicated/enthusiastic he would be if I was a paying client. He is a brilliant attorney and I know I would have been in good hands if I needed legal representation. McCabe, Coleman, Ventosa & Patterson PLLC has a proven track record of success and I highly recommend their firm to anyone in need of legal services!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Kevin DeHond

from Google Reviews

Exceptional service and expertise throughout every interaction! Highly recommend John and his team.

Paul Stewart

from Google Reviews

From start to finish, John and his team were an absolute pleasure to work with. John took the time to thoroughly get to know my wife and I and our needs. He was extremely prompt in answering all of our questions, and even answered questions we didn’t know we had. We never had to ask for follow up, because John always beat us to it. His knowledge of business law helped us to skillfully navigate a difficult situation. We are happy to say we will be using John and his team as both our family and business attorney for all of our future needs.

John Dearden

from Google Reviews

I have worked with both John Ventosa and Chris Coleman on both simple and complex legal matters. John, Chris and the entire staff have been thorough and professional every step of the way. I recommend this firm to anyone seeking sound and honest legal representation.

Kevin Alanis

from Google Reviews

John ventosa was very patient and helpful for what I needed. Will definitely use their services again.

Kino Dean

from Google Reviews

I don’t know where to start. Mr.Ventosa is a person who saved my life as a young adult and gave me a second chance in life. Watching him for 2 years take on my case and fight for me like he was my own family showed me his passion and character as a man. Case after case he showed up and was consistent with the 2 cases I caught as a young adult and he told me to not give up things will be better in the end. His words were so encouraging I became accountable as a man to do better and understand the choices I made were immature. He is the reason why I am back focused on the journey I began with during college and his tough characteristics gave me a sign to be mature in a time where I am entering my adulthood. Words can’t express how I feel about him and if you do come across a situation and you need a second chance in life please contact him I promise you he WILL
NOT LET YOU DOWN. THANK YOU MR.VENTOSA YOU ARE TRULY APPRECIATED FOR YOUR HARD WORK AND CONSISTENCY !!

Arkhip

from Google Reviews

Christopher Coleman is an honorable figure and exceptional attorney. In a world filled with greedy and unethical people, and just down right bad actors – Mr. Coleman is a light at the end of a tunnel and a fighter. He will tell you upfront what to expect and how he sees your situation turning out. He won’t waste your time or your money, or have you going down a rabbit hole, like other attorneys build their practices around. He’s the attorney you want defending you and negotiating for you. But he’s also the same attorney that you should use in bettering yourself and avoiding future problems in business and life. If you need an attorney, you can breathe a little better at night knowing you’re in good hands.

Abigail Lowe

from Google Reviews

John Ventosa Is such an incredible lawyer. He is the most compassionate, kind and understanding Lawyer I have met. He is the best at what he does and takes such good care of his clients. John and his whole team is very helpful in walking your through every process and takes the time to answer all of your questions and concerns. If you are in the need of a fantastic lawyer look no further than John Ventosa.

Let’s Secure Your Family’s Future

Estate planning may feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right legal guidance, you can take control of your future, protect your assets, and ensure your loved ones are cared for. At McCabe, Coleman, Ventosa & Patterson, we understand the importance of planning ahead—and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Experienced Representation

With over 200 years of combined experience, our attorneys ensure you have strong, informed advocates on your side.

Personalized Guidance

We take the time to understand your unique situation, offering clear advice and dedicated support throughout the process.

Local & Accessible

With deep roots in the community, we are committed to providing trusted legal representation right where you live and work.
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