Blog
Your Will Doesn’t Avoid Probate. Here’s What Does.
Most people assume a last will and testament means their family avoids court after they pass away. In her latest segment on WGNY, Megan Conroy explains why that’s a myth…
Read MoreElder Abuse & Fraud — Protecting Seniors from Smarter Scams
Scams Are Getting Smarter. Here’s What You Need to Know. Scams are nothing new—but they’ve gotten significantly more sophisticated, and older adults are the primary targets. In her latest segment…
Read MoreImportant 2026 Medicaid Changes: What New York Families Need to Know
Two major Medicaid rule changes took effect in 2026 — and they could shorten Medicaid penalty periods, reduce application delays, and create new planning flexibility for New York families. If…
Read MorePlanning Ahead: Disposition of Remains — Pre-Planning Your Final Wishes
Planning Ahead: Don’t Leave Your Final Wishes to Your Will Your will handles money and property. But who decides how your body is laid to rest? Most people assume that’s…
Read MorePlanning Ahead: Irrevocable Trusts & Medicaid — Long-Term Care Costs & Essential Tools
Long-term care is one of the most expensive costs a person will ever face — and without the right plan, it can wipe out a lifetime of savings. In her…
Read MoreTHE ART OF AVOIDING PROBATE: Simple Tricks Vs. Strategic Planning
“I just want to avoid probate.” It’s one of the most common requests Megan Conroy hears at Blustein, Shapiro, Frank & Barone, LLP. While bypassing the court is a worthy…
Read MoreEstate Taxes, Capital Gains & Probate: What New York Families Need to Know
Estate planning isn’t just about who gets what—it’s about how much of your estate actually reaches your family versus how much is lost to taxes or tied up in court.…
Read MoreManaging Partner Will Frank Named 2026 MVP by OC Partnership
The start of 2026 marks an exciting milestone for Blustein, Shapiro, Frank & Barone, LLP (BSF&B). Following his recent transition to managing partner, the firm is proud to announce that…
Read MorePlanning for Retirement: Required Min. Distributions
While BSF&B is an estate planning law firm, a robust estate plan is incomplete without careful attention to retirement assets. Estate planning and retirement planning go hand in hand. BSF&B…
Read MoreChoosing Financial POAs & Health Care Proxies
What happens if you suddenly can’t manage your finances or speak to your doctors? That’s the reality estate planning beyond the will addresses. Blustein, Shapiro, Frank & Barone, LLP Partner…
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