The Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan provides sound legal advice and insight to help protect your assets during your lifetime and for your family’s future. We advise clients on all aspects of estate and trust planning, administration, settlement, and taxation, collaborating with other practice areas to provide comprehensive solutions.
The Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan provides services, including the formation of trusts, the preparation of wills, and the probate of estates.
Our Estate Team has 59 years of combined experience in planning for the distribution of wealth and assets, and in ensuring investments and savings are put to work for our clients’ heirs. Our attorneys also represent families and businesses in income, gift, and estate tax controversies with the IRS.
Put us to work preserving your legacy and protecting your family’s future.
Estate Planning Overview
Estate planning means confirming that your assets, healthcare decisions, and loved ones are protected. At KBD Law, we guide you through the complex decisions involved in planning for the future.
What is Estate Planning?
Wills: Legal document specifying asset distribution after death.
Trusts: Tools to manage and transfer wealth during your lifetime and after.
Healthcare Directives: Directives specifying medical decisions when you're unable to do so.
Starting the process of drafting a will? Establishing a trust? Updating your current plan? It doesn’t matter. We’re here to help you make informed decisions that reflect your unique circumstances and goals.
Trusts: Safeguard Your Assets
A trust can be an effective tool to manage and distribute your assets while minimizing taxes and avoiding probate. Our experienced attorneys will help you determine the right type of trust for your needs.
Types of Trusts We Handle:
- Revocable Living Trusts: Flexible trusts that can be amended during your lifetime.
- Irrevocable Trusts: Trusts that cannot be altered once set in place, often used for tax benefits.
- Special Needs Trusts: Designed for beneficiaries with disabilities for continued financial support.
With the right structure, your estate is handled according to your wishes, even after your passing.
Power of Attorney & Healthcare Directives
Proper estate planning looks beyond after you’re gone. The goal is to prepare for the possibility that you might not be able to make decisions for yourself.
Key Documents Include:
- Power of Attorney: Designates a person to manage financial or legal matters on your behalf.
- Healthcare Directives: Specifies your preferences for medical treatment if you are incapacitated.
Through these documents, you will confirm that your financial and medical decisions are handled by trusted individuals. We work with you so these documents reflect your wishes and provide peace of mind.
The Importance of Regular Updates
Your life circumstances, assets, and goals may change over time. That’s why it’s important to revisit your estate plan regularly. Whether it’s due to a change in family dynamics, tax laws, or financial situation, KBD Law is here to help you adjust your plans and confirm that your estate plan continues to meet your needs.
When Should You Update Your Estate Plan?
- After major life events (marriage, divorce, birth of a child)
- Changes in your financial situation (inheritance, new property, job changes)
- Changes in the law that affect estate planning and taxes
Communicating Your Estate Plan
Once your estate plan is in place, we also provide guidance on how to communicate your plan to your loved ones so they understand your wishes. Transparent communication is a must for minimizing misunderstandings and potential conflicts among family members during difficult times.
Best Practices for Communication:
- Explain your decisions: Why you’ve made the choices you have.
- Be clear about roles: Who will handle financial and healthcare decisions.
- Encourage open discussion: Invite family members to ask questions and express concerns.
Trust & Estate Litigation Services
When disputes arise concerning the validity of a will or trust, or when disagreements occur about the administration of an estate, our firm is here to provide expert legal representation.
Common Estate Disputes We Handle:
- Will and trust contests: Challenges to the validity of your will or trust.
- Beneficiary disputes: Conflicts between family members over inheritance.
- Estate administration issues: Disputes regarding how the estate is being managed.
We’re committed to resolving these conflicts in a timely and efficient manner, working to protect your interests and the integrity of your loved ones’ legacies.
Why Choose KBD Law for Your Estate Planning Needs?
At KBD Law, we take a personal, thoughtful approach to estate planning. Our attorneys are committed to creating solutions that protect your legacy and provide clarity and peace of mind for your loved ones.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Experience: Decades of experience helping families plan their estates.
- Personalized Service: Custom-tailored solutions based on your unique needs.
- Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize clear communication and understanding.
Our client-centered approach means that your estate plan is customized specifically to you, whether it involves simple wills or more complex estate planning tools.
Estate Planning Is a Gift for Your Future
By planning ahead, you make sure that your loved ones are cared for, and your legacy is preserved. Whether you’re just beginning the estate planning process or you’re looking to make changes to an existing plan, the team at KBD Law is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Us
To learn more about how our estate planning lawyers can help you secure your future, contact us today. At KBD Law, we are committed to providing compassionate and professional legal services.
Your wishes and your loved ones are honored and protected. Let us help you take control of your future, starting today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cases does the Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan handle?
The firm handles civil litigation, family and matrimonial law, criminal defense, estate planning, insurance defense litigation, real estate law, and workers’ compensation cases for clients in Buffalo and throughout New York State.
Where is the Law Offices of Kristen Balbick Degnan located?
The office is located at 42 Delaware Avenue, Suite 700, Buffalo, New York 14202.
Do you serve clients outside of Buffalo, New York?
Yes. The firm provides dedicated legal representation to clients across all of New York State.
How much legal experience does Kristen Balbick Degnan have?
Kristen Balbick Degnan has nearly two decades of legal experience, including service as an Assistant District Attorney in Erie County and extensive private practice litigation experience.
What should I expect during an initial consultation?
During an initial consultation, you can expect a discussion of your legal issue, an overview of your options, and an explanation of how the firm may assist you moving forward.
Do you handle both litigation and non litigation matters?
Yes. The firm provides both litigation representation and non-litigation legal services such as estate planning and real estate transactions.
How can I contact the firm to schedule a consultation?
You can contact the office by phone at 716-318-5355 or by email at office@kbd.law.