Making a will for the first time can feel overwhelming. We keep it simple. Morgan Legal Group, led by Russel Morgan, Esq., guides everyday New Yorkers through the essentials — whether you live in New York City, Long Island, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, or Upstate — so you know exactly what you are signing and why.
What We Help You Get Right
New York law under EPTL §3-2.1 sets clear rules for a valid will. Miss one step and a court may reject the document entirely.
| Essential requirement | Plain-English meaning |
|---|---|
| Sign at the END of the will | Your signature closes the document — nothing added after counts |
| Declare it your will (publication) | Tell both witnesses “this is my will” |
| Two attesting witnesses | Both must sign, at your request, within a single 30-day period |
| Witnesses add residence addresses | Required under EPTL §3-2.1 — initials alone are not enough |
If you die without a will, EPTL Article 4 (intestacy) distributes your estate to next of kin — often not the outcome you would choose. A surviving spouse also holds a protected minimum share under EPTL §5-1.1-A regardless of what any will says.
Ready to cover the essentials? Explore NY will requirements, execution rules, or what happens with no will — then book a free 30-minute call with Russel Morgan.
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Further reading from Morgan Legal Group: key things to know about writing a will.