Tracy RuhlingAttorney at Law · Estate Planning

Services

Estate Planning Services for Long Island Families

Whether you're just starting out or updating an existing plan, I'll guide you through every step — in plain English, at your own pace.

A plan that fits your life

Estate planning isn't one-size-fits-all. A young family with small children has different needs than a couple approaching retirement, or a single adult with a business to protect. My job is to listen to your situation and help you build a plan that makes sense for you — not a generic template.

Every service I offer is designed to work together as part of a complete estate plan. I'll help you understand what you need, what you don't, and why — so you can make confident decisions for your family's future.

01

Wills

Make your wishes clear. Protect your family.

A Last Will and Testament is the cornerstone of any estate plan. Without one, New York state law — not you — decides who inherits your assets, who raises your children, and who manages your estate.

What's included

  • Name guardians for minor children
  • Direct how your assets are distributed
  • Appoint an executor you trust
  • Minimize family conflict and confusion
  • Reduce the time and cost of probate

Even a simple will can make an enormous difference for the people you love.

02

Revocable Trust

Protect assets. Avoid probate. Provide for loved ones.

A trust is a legal arrangement that holds and manages assets on behalf of your beneficiaries. Trusts offer flexibility and privacy that a will alone cannot provide — and they can help your family avoid the time and expense of probate court.

What's included

  • Revocable living trusts for probate avoidance
  • Provide asset protection for spouse, children and beneficiaries
  • Provide special needs trusts for disabled beneficiaries
  • Plan for care instructions during lifetime
  • Trusts for minor children or grandchildren

I'll explain which type of trust — if any — makes sense for your specific situation.

03

Powers of Attorney

Protect yourself if you're ever unable to act.

A Durable Power of Attorney authorizes someone you trust to manage your financial and legal affairs if you become incapacitated. Without one, your family may need to go to court to gain that authority — a costly and stressful process.

What's included

  • Durable Power of Attorney for finances
  • Plan for incapacity
  • Allow gifting during incapacity
  • Guidance on choosing the right agent
  • Coordination with your overall estate plan

This is one of the most important documents any adult can have — regardless of age or wealth.

04

Healthcare Directives

Your voice, even when you can't speak.

Healthcare directives ensure your medical wishes are honored and relieve your loved ones of agonizing decisions during a crisis. These documents work together to give you control over your care and protect your family.

What's included

  • Healthcare Proxy (naming your medical decision-maker)
  • Living Will (documenting end-of-life wishes)
  • HIPAA authorization for medical information
  • Guidance on having the conversation with your family
  • Coordination with your power of attorney

These documents are especially important for young adults — not just seniors.

05

Probate

Compassionate guidance through a difficult process.

If you've lost a loved one, navigating the probate process can feel overwhelming — especially while grieving. I'll guide your family through the legal steps required to settle the estate with care, clarity, and efficiency.

What's included

  • Obtaining Letters of Administration and Letters Testamentary
  • Litigation excluded

Proper estate planning can significantly reduce — or even eliminate — the need for probate.

The process

How it works

Getting started is easier than you think.

01

Free consultation

We start with a no-obligation conversation — by phone or in person — to understand your situation and answer your questions.

02

Personalized plan

I'll recommend the documents and strategies that make sense for your family, explain the costs, and answer any questions.

03

Document preparation

I draft your documents carefully and review them with you to make sure everything reflects your wishes exactly.

04

Signing & execution

We meet to sign your documents with the proper witnesses and notarization — making everything legally valid.

Not sure where to start?

That's completely normal. Most people come to me with questions, not answers. Schedule a free consultation and we'll figure out what you need together.

Schedule a Free Consultation

No obligation. No confusing legal jargon. Just a conversation.